The Old Farmer’s Almanac has us rummaging for those winter coats already. Long before we had smartphone weather apps or televised forecasts, folks relied on The Old Farmer’s Almanac, a publication established in 1792 designed to aid farmers in anticipating weather conditions that could affect their crops. Fast forward to today, and the Almanac is still delivering weather predictions, whether we like it or not. Unfortunately, its outlook for this winter isn’t exactly promising.
In a recent press release outlining its forecasts for the 2019-2020 winter season, the Almanac employed alarming phrases such as “bone-chilling cold,” “seven significant snowstorms anticipated,” and “is this the winter that never ends?” Is it just me, or is there a sudden nip in the air that wasn’t there a moment ago?
According to the predictions, this winter will be heavily characterized by snow, with at least seven major snowstorms expected nationwide. For areas that typically don’t experience snow, prepare for heavy rainfall, sleet, and just a general sense of dreariness. Sounds delightful, right?
“This winter will be recognized for its intense cold and powerful storms, resulting in a continuous barrage of heavy rain and sleet, along with heaps of snow,” the release states. No thanks!
But wait, there’s more. Along with above-average precipitation, we can expect frigid temperatures that could linger into spring for various regions. If you were hoping to stash away your winter gear, think again—those layers might be necessary until at least July.
“This could feel like a never-ending winter, particularly for the Midwest and the Ohio Valley and Appalachians, where winter weather may stretch well into March and possibly the beginning of spring,” said Almanac editor, Sarah Thompson, in the press release.
You might be pondering, “What a perfect moment to plan a mid-winter escape to Hawaii!” LOL, think again. The Almanac warns that even typically warm Hawaii will experience a chill, with colder-than-average temperatures and thunderstorms. Essentially, winter is set to invade everywhere, so it might be a good time to invest in a stylish new parka and brace yourself.
What’s causing this extreme and seemingly endless winter? Climate change is certainly a player, particularly regarding the mega-storms that crop up outside the usual winter months. If you, like many, dread enduring the cold for half the year, advocating for eco-friendly policies might be the way to go.
For more insights on preparing for the winter season, check out this excellent resource on the IVF process and home insemination. And if you’re looking for additional tips on navigating life as a parent, you can find more information in one of our other blog posts.
In summary, this winter is gearing up to be a challenging one, with excessive snow, cold temperatures, and storms expected across the nation. So, bundle up and stay informed about what’s ahead.