At or above normal temperatures are expected over the next several days. While many of us welcome these signs of spring, it's a clear indication of climate change in progress.
New data shows that spring months continue to get warmer across the Triangle and for most of our country. Looking specifically at the Triangle, the average temperature has climbed 3.1 degrees since 1970. The graph above clearly shows a steady climb in temperatures during the March-May timeframe.
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We also experience more days with above normal temperatures during the spring months. Data just in to the WRAL Severe Weather Center shows that we now experience an average of 13 more days with above normal temperatures during the March-May timeframe when compared to 52 years ago. Again, notice the continued steady climb in the graph below. More above normal days in spring is a clear sign of climate change.
Spring warming is happening in the majority of the United States. A study that examined 234 locations across the country shows about 97% of those locations had an increase in their average spring temperatures since 1970. Spring warming is greatest in the Southwest. The locations that saw the greatest warming were Reno (6.8 degrees warmer), Las Vegas (6.2 degrees warmer) and El Paso (5.9 degrees warmer).
Spring months are not only warmer, but the timing is shifting. Warmer temperatures are arriving earlier. This can lead to longer pest and pollen seasons.
Scientists continue to study how this shift in temperatures is impacting our ecology, as well. For example, an earlier arrival of spring could impact food availability and breeding success for some species.