The Bay Area Chill Could Set Record Lows in These Cities. Some Climate Scientists Are Worried
Winkley’s group not too long ago analyzed 245 main US cities to find out how local weather change is altering winter. They discovered that in 80% of these cities — together with San Francisco — winter is getting shorter for about 9 days. San Francisco winters are shortening by six days on common.
“We are seeing more warm days during the winter months than we did prior,” Winkley stated.
This development, Winkley famous, additionally means it may be colder much less usually. Since 2020, there have been 52 every day temperature data set in San Francisco. Winkley stated just one was for a record-low temperature in 2022.
“This showcases how even in a warming world, there’s still cold weather to be had, and there’s something to the idea that climate change makes all extremes more extreme,” Winkley stated.
But whereas the possibly record-setting chilly temperatures this week appear drastic compared to the latest heat Bay Area climate, Winkley stated the chilly would have “been a little more regular in decades past in a more stable climate.” But, he notes, we now not stay in a secure local weather.
“Even though this is going to be a significant cold snap, and there is the potential that we could see a record, we know that record cold really just is not as prevalent or as common as it should be,” Winkley stated.
While the additional chilly temperatures and two weeks of rain could also be annoying to vacationers and commuters, Kennedy stated the chilly temperatures are a superb signal that winter-like situations have not disappeared completely.
“I know some people said they thought winter was over,” Kennedy stated. “But winter is not over. It’s still here. It’s still thriving. And if you like cold weather, which I do, it’s just nice to see those colder temperatures returning.”
But when you hate winter and the chilly, Kennedy stated this may be the week to put on an additional layer or keep house in the course of the coldest components of the day.
“It’d be a really good idea to bundle up and check in on anyone who may not have adequate access to heating,” Kennedy stated. “Also, remember to make sure your pets are indoors and to protect any plants that are outside.”
