Rain poured down on the iconic Rose Parade for the first time in 20 years, catching everyone off guard as Southern California faced flood warnings. This was an unusual start to 2026, with heavy rain joining colder weather around the country, especially in the Midwest.
As the parade began, marching bands and floats braved the rain, with one to two inches soaking Pasadena. The morning temperature hovered around 58°F (14°C). In New York City, revelers at the New Year’s Eve ball drop bundled up for near-freezing temperatures, the coldest in a decade.
Hundreds of thousands lined the nearly six-mile route in Pasadena, while millions watched on television. Though rain had been predicted, organizers of the parade only made minor adjustments, like keeping the convertible tops up for grand marshals, including basketball legend Magic Johnson.
The National Weather Service had warned of floods earlier that week, with advisories extending along the Pacific Coast. Areas still recovering from last year’s wildfires also faced evacuations due to the heavy rains.
While the sun broke through in New York for Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s inaugural celebration, other parts of the Northeast and the Midwest battled harsh weather. An Alberta clipper storm brought snow and high winds, affecting travel significantly. About a quarter of flights from both San Diego International and Boston Logan were delayed.
The impact of weather extremes has been growing. Recent studies indicate that climate change is making such unpredictable weather more common. As climate expert Dr. Jennifer Francis notes, “We’re seeing the fingerprints of climate change in these extreme weather events.”
This extraordinary season not only highlights the challenges of weather unpredictability but also serves as a reminder of our climate’s changing nature. With each year, we may need to adapt our traditions and celebrations to a new reality.
For more about changing climate impacts, check out the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Source link
environment,Climate,Entertainment,U.S. news,Zohran Mamdani,Sports
