What To Know
- A surprising winter heatwaveIn an unusual turn of weather events, North America is experiencing a significant rise in temperatures this winter.
- This has resulted in a warm air mass stagnating over the eastern half of North America while relatively colder air is pushed towards the west, impacting parts of Alberta, British Columbia, and Alaska.
- If we compare these figures to Paris during late December—where the usual temperature is about 46°F—the equivalent deviation would result in summer-like conditions with temperatures reaching between 82°F and 100°F.
An extraordinary heatwave has gripped North America, with temperatures soaring as much as 54°F above seasonal norms, causing widespread concern across Canada and the United States.
a surprising winter heatwave
In an unusual turn of weather events, North America is experiencing a significant rise in temperatures this winter. Meteorologists describe this phenomenon as an ‘unprecedented winter heat.’ The eastern regions of Canada are particularly affected, with provinces like Quebec, Ontario, and Manitoba witnessing temperatures that are remarkably higher than typical for this time of year.
climatic anomalies explained
The current climatic conditions are attributed to a pronounced undulation of the jet stream. This has resulted in a warm air mass stagnating over the eastern half of North America while relatively colder air is pushed towards the west, impacting parts of Alberta, British Columbia, and Alaska.
- The heatwave is expected to persist for at least another week.
- Some areas have reported temperature deviations ranging from 20 to 30°C (36-54°F) above average.
This anomaly has left many regions experiencing weather more akin to spring than winter.
global implications and comparisons
The situation in Canada mirrors similar temperature spikes in other Northern Hemisphere regions. In Russia, for instance, temperatures have exceeded normal levels by approximately 27°F. Climate experts warn that such anomalies could become more frequent due to ongoing climate change.
- The east coast of Canada should be facing subzero temperatures now but instead sees measurements between 32°F and 41°F.
- Along Hudson Bay’s shores, where -4°F would be standard, recent days have recorded around 32°F—a staggering deviation from expected norms.
If we compare these figures to Paris during late December—where the usual temperature is about 46°F—the equivalent deviation would result in summer-like conditions with temperatures reaching between 82°F and 100°F.
