This weekend, Pittsburgh saw nearly a foot of snow, just shy of the record from the infamous “Snowmageddon” storm in 2010. As temperatures linger well below freezing, it’s easy to forget that winter is actually the fastest-warming season on the East Coast.
Mark Serreze, the director of the National Snow and Ice Data Center, reminds us that global warming hasn’t stopped. “Variable weather patterns are a part of it,” he says, echoing a sentiment shared by many climate scientists today.
While cold snaps are becoming less frequent, there’s still a chance for significant winter storms. Matt Barlow, a climate science professor, notes that these storms are actually becoming more intense. As the atmosphere warms, it can hold more moisture, which leads to increased precipitation overall. When conditions align, this can spell heavier snowfall.
“There’s more water coming down,” Barlow explains. However, the challenge lies in getting the right conditions for colder temperatures to create snow instead of rain. He also points out that disruptions in stratospheric circulation might help create colder conditions, which could boost the intensity of these winter storms.
Communities may be caught off guard by these rare but intense storms. The unfamiliarity can make storms feel even more daunting. As Serreze highlights, warmer winters generally mean more rain instead of snow, shifting long-term trends even further.
Interestingly, despite the recent snow, overall snowfall is becoming rarer. Areas used to seeing regular snowfall now face unpredictable winter conditions. This raises concerns about preparedness for snow removal and safety during these storms.
In a world where climate patterns continue to evolve, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to these changes. Snow may still fall, but the trends suggest it might not be a staple of our winters for long.
For more on how climate change is reshaping our weather patterns, check out resources from Climate Central.
