Feeling the Heat: Is Global Warming to Blame for Our Mild Winter in WA?

I've been closely watching the weather patterns because I'm currently traveling through 6 different states with a horse trailer, 2 horses, and 2 dogs.

If you listen to the morning show on 98.3 The Key, You know I'm broadcasting live from my horse trailer and taking my show on the road!

I hope to make it to Arizona over the next week, but I have to scope out the weather windows to make it over the higher elevations.

So far it was most difficult just after leaving WA State. I ran into some snow and fog between Pendleton and Lagrande OR. and then just outside Baker, OR.

But quite honestly I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't worse!

Have you noticed the unusual warmth this fall? We're well into Winter and still haven't seen a flake of snow in the valleys of Washington, whereas, in years past, we'd be bundled up and often had snow by Halloween.

Is this just a quirky weather anomaly? Or  – is it a symptom of a larger trend?

The Pacific Northwest, like much of the globe, is experiencing a warming climate. This is evident in rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and more frequent and intense heatwaves.

While weather patterns can be fickle, the long-term trend is undeniable. But is it just cyclical? or is it really "Global Warming'?

I have to giggle sometimes when I see a 'winter storm weather alert' come across and it's bright and sunny and no precipitation at all!

Why is weather so difficult to predict?

You'd think they could more accurately forecast our weather. But I get that it is ever-changing and difficult to predict.

When I got to Idaho it was clear and cold but also not much snow. Now that I'm in Utah we have had a dusting of snow but nothing compared to years ago when there would be snow drifts of easily 5-8 feet pushed aside highways from snow plows.

Even with the the East Coast and Midwest getting more storms of snow than us this year they are also seemingly warmer than in years past.

I find the whole thing curious but also interesting. I can't imagine cows create that much methane that contributes to global warming but I guess that whole thing is true as well! Weird right? I find that hard to believe though.

For the most part, this trip the weather predictions have helped me monitor weather patterns, But they are constantly changing. I have very little definitive idea of what the weather will do until I'm almost right in it.

However, while not perfect, climate models provide valuable insights into long-term trends.

  Scientists say These models, combined with observed data, strongly suggest that human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, are the primary driver of the warming trend.

This isn't just an environmental issue; it has significant social and economic implications.

Changes in weather patterns can impact agriculture, water resources, and even human health. Not to mention just plain humans trying to travel across 6 states to find warmer weather in AZ! Haha!

So, what can we do? Reducing our carbon footprint is crucial. This involves transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and embracing sustainable practices.

I never know what to believe for sure but I know the scientists that have been studying this for centuries know more than I do. Still...I just want a simple accurate forecast so I can make my trip without too much trouble!

Be sure to follow along on my blogging episodes of "Faith Martin Adventures' Coming soon!

Send me an App chat! I love getting those on the road! It makes this journey feel like I'm less alone! And thanks for listening to 98.3 The Key Morning Show!

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