It’s hard to believe that pumpkin spice season has already arrived yet again! Stores have their fall selections out, and the holiday decor is even starting to make an appearance.
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Weather-wise, we have seen some relatively comfortable temperatures filtering in for the time being. However, when we look at our fall climate over the past 52 years, there are some key changes that stick out regarding a noticeable warming trend.
When we look at climate patterns, as Meteorologists, we like to have a consistent way to measure and group those changes and patterns. As a result, we use the phrase “Meteorological Fall” as the months of September, October, and November, even though the official start is later in the month of September.
Looking at the broader view of the changes we have seen across the country during fall, there are some noticeable areas. The Southwest has seen a relatively large degree of warming, especially across Colorado and Wyoming. Temperatures have gone up by more than 3.5 degrees during fall going back to 1970. In the east, we still have seen some slight changes.
A closer view of Raleigh/Durham shows that we have seen an average temperature increase of about 2.6 degrees. It should be noted that, yes, there are natural oscillations every year. We may see a relatively cooler OR warmer year. The trend line, however, does show a consistent warming over time.
Our days above normal have also gone up by about 11 more than the pattern we were seeing in 1970.
The impacts of this warming include: higher energy costs due to increased air conditioning use and for a longer duration, a prolonged allergy season, more risk for heat-related illness, and a longer wildfire season.
Enjoy this great time of the year, but make sure to stick with WRAL Meteorologists as we monitor our changing climate.