NOAA Updates Winter Predictions-- Wetter–and now Colder–than Average
- John Cornelison
- October 21, 2011
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NOAA had already posted news that we were likely to have a wetter than average winter in the northwest. Now they’re also saying there is over a 33% chance it may be colder than average, according to their latest long range forecast issued Thursday, and their “non-technical” explanation.
“The evolving La Niña will shape this winter,” said Mike Halpert, deputy director of NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “There is a wild card, though. The erratic Arctic Oscillation can generate strong shifts in the climate patterns that could overwhelm or amplify La Niña’s typical impacts.”
For the Pacific Northwest, the U.S. Winter Outlook (December through February) predicts colder and wetter than average. La Niña often results in below-average temperatures and increased mountain snow in the Pacific Northwest and western Montana during the winter months.
Time to go buy another Season’s Pass at Washington’s many great ski areas! Until then, go browse the many fascinating climate prediction information from our local weather office.
