Winter Predictions

Winter Predictions

By Alex Dobbins

Winter is soon approaching, with only two and a half weeks left until it begins. The US average of inches of snow per year is 28, but Exeter averages 56 inches of snow per year. But what should we expect for this winter? 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) annual predictions show that southern New Hampshire will have temperatures “leaning above” average. This means more of the same climate as last year, the 30s and 40s, and most importantly, NO SNOW.

For precipitation, it’s estimated that the New England area will experience a normal outlook. The seacoast area is expected to experience drought-like conditions. This is concerning considering the brush fires that arose from the drought-like conditions we have experienced for the past few months. They were relatively tame to the ones experienced in Massachusetts, but an increased period of these conditions could mean a worse result.

The overall result is predicted as a “La Niña” season, meaning warmer temperatures. This has been the outlook for multiple years in a row, which shows a more concerning trend of warmer temperatures during the winter. This has an overall negative effect on the planet, as we know, and have seen, as parts of the country have already been seeing the effects—for example, hurricanes are increasing in power as the warmer temperatures in the ocean are perfect for a powerful storm.

Locally, ice storms and increased freezing rain make conditions dangerous as it is perfect for ice. Increased wind in these storms mean continual loss of power. 

Hopefully, the predictions are wrong, and we can experience the proper winter, but the outlook is not positive.

Works cited:

Source 1 

Source 2