By Andi Anderson
During the latter part of December, an upper air ridging pattern across the central and eastern USA brought about an extended phase of unusually warm weather across Michigan and the Great Lakes region.
Average temperatures across Michigan soared 7-11°F above normal in December, marking it among the top five warmest Decembers on record for most areas. Despite this warmth, precipitation levels remained below average, ranging from 25% to 50% of typical levels. Some regions experienced minimal rainfall while others observed slightly higher amounts.
Snowfall, vital for this time of the year, remained significantly lower than usual, especially in areas usually impacted by lake effect snow.
The mild early winter had consequences for agricultural activities. With frozen soils absent, late harvests faced challenges. Lakes and rivers showed much less ice formation compared to the norm.
Recent weather forecasts have hinted at a potential change in the weather pattern. While earlier predictions leaned towards continued mild temperatures due to El Nino-related upper air ridging, newer guidance indicates a shift. There are indications of an amplified jet stream pattern across North America, potentially directing cold Canadian air masses into the Lower 48 states, particularly affecting the northern Rockies and Great Plains.
This shift might bring back more typical winter conditions in Michigan later this month, including colder temperatures and possibly noteworthy snowfall.
Although the NOAA Climate Prediction Center's January outlook continues to project milder temperatures, it now suggests equal chances for below, near, or above-normal precipitation levels. Looking ahead to January through March, forecasts hint at higher probabilities of above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation for Michigan.
Categories: Michigan, Weather