Weather in North Carolina often has very rapid changes, as evident by this year’s winter. Many individuals have felt as if this holiday season was different.
“It didn’t feel like Christmas compared to prior years because of the lack of snow, and the weather was somewhat neutral overall,” said freshman Margret Flores.
Reports showed the temperatures in North Carolina on Christmas day remained in the 70s. In the beginning of December temperatures got to the high 20s with even rumors of snow. As the month progressed it began to warm slightly with temperatures being in the 30s to 50s according to World Weather.
“It doesn’t feel like the winter holidays without snow,” said freshman Laura Clare Absher.
Long range forecasts had a mix of predictions. Some predicted colder than normal weather and snowier areas, especially in the east. Others predicted warmer temperatures and drier conditions. Christmas day ended up being warmer spring-like weather in the central areas with the slight chance of rain.
The short term warm weather was caused by a high pressure which pushes away the colder air and brings clear skies and warm humid air. Long term effects like climate change are more likely to increase and occur more often in the future. As global temperatures continue to rise, it’s more likely to have future Christmases that are also warm.
Lowerering global temperatures can do more than just make Christmas time feel more ‘normal’. Participating in activities such as reducing greenhouse gases and using renewable energy sources can help reduce climate change. If humans continue to use the Earth’s resources without worrying about the damage happening to the environment, the amount of warmer Christmases will continue to increase.
