Weather month december
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December Weather Patterns: A Historical Overview
December Temperature Trends
Warm and Cold Spells in December
December weather patterns have historically shown significant variability, with some years experiencing unseasonably warm conditions while others face extreme cold. For instance, December 1959 was characterized by a warm maritime regime over most of North America, contrasting sharply with the unseasonable cold of the preceding November. Similarly, December 1967 saw mild temperatures east of the Mississippi River, with numerous new daily maximum temperature records set from the western Great Lakes to the Middle Atlantic States. However, this mildness was interrupted by a cold snap in the last week of December, bringing Arctic air as far south as northern Mississippi.
In contrast, December 2003 experienced below-normal temperatures confined to the East, with readings averaging up to 6°F below normal, while the remainder of the contiguous United States saw above-normal temperatures for most of the month. December 1999 also showcased a mix of weather patterns, with record warmth spreading from the West Coast to the upper Midwest, while the Midwest, South, and East experienced brief cooling.
Historical Frosts and Cold Snaps
December is traditionally associated with frosts, although it is not always the coldest month of winter. In England, for example, December is generally not as cold as January or February, with average temperatures just above 40°F over a 90-year period. Notable exceptions include the intensely cold December of 1879 in western Europe. Similarly, at Fort Rae, the winter of 1879 began in earnest at the start of December with temperatures plummeting to -34°F, and except for some mild weather at Christmas, the cold persisted throughout the month.
December Precipitation Patterns
Snowfall and Storms
December often brings significant snowfall and storm activity. In December 1959, a series of storms developed in the Southwest and moved east-northeastward, resulting in a wet and snowy month over much of the nation's mid-section. December 1967 also saw record snowfall, particularly in the Northeast, with Burlington, Vermont receiving 12 inches and Boston, Massachusetts reporting 20-30 inches in outlying areas. Additionally, snow fell on eight consecutive days in Flagstaff, Arizona, and for the first time in 30 years, Yuma, Arizona recorded a trace of snow.
In December 2003, late-month storminess and snowfall were notable in the chronically dry Intermountain West, while the Northeast experienced exceptionally stormy weather. Conversely, December 1999 saw scarce snowfall nationwide, except for early and mid-month in the Pacific Northwest, southern Plains, and Great Lakes region.
Rainfall and Moisture
Rainfall is another key feature of December weather. In the British Isles, December is characterized by frequent rain, often more so than any other month, although the actual amounts may be less than in October or August. The French Revolutionary Calendar even named the period from November 21 to December 20 as "Frimaire," referring to the formation of hoar-frost on the ground at night rather than persistently below-freezing temperatures.
Conclusion
December weather patterns exhibit a wide range of variability, from warm spells and record high temperatures to intense cold snaps and significant snowfall. Historical data highlights the complexity and unpredictability of December weather, influenced by various atmospheric conditions and regional differences. Understanding these patterns helps in preparing for the diverse weather conditions that December can bring.
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