Summary of Are We Talking Weather or Climate?:
This content discusses the difference between climate and weather, using the example of June and July in a specific location. It highlights how June had cooler temperatures than average while July had hotter temperatures. However, it emphasizes that looking at individual months is insufficient to determine climate change. Instead, a larger scale and longer time frame need to be examined. The content mentions that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides tools to assess climate change over the years. In this specific location, it is demonstrated that the average July temperature has increased over time. The content also mentions that climate change is primarily caused by greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide, and suggests ways to reduce carbon footprint, such as avoiding single-use plastic, recycling, and eating local foods. Additionally, it suggests growing one’s vegetables to reduce fossil fuel usage.
Summary:
1. Weather vs. climate: Understanding the difference between short-term weather patterns and long-term climate trends.
2. Examining the weather data of June and July 2023 about climate change.
3. The importance of looking at long-term climate data and trends spanning several decades or centuries.
4. The evidence of climate change in Pueblo County, Colorado, and its impact on July temperatures.
5. Exploring ways to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to mitigating climate change.
Weather or Climate: An Exploration of June and July 2023
Have you ever wondered about the difference between weather and climate? Mark Twain once said, “Climate is what we expect, and weather is what we get.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the distinction between short-term weather patterns and long-term climate trends. But what would Twain say about climate change? Let’s dive into the unique and fascinating aspects of the weather and climate we experienced in June and July 2023.
June began with a delightful surprise. The cool, crisp days and abundant rainfall made it feel like an unexpected oasis amidst our rapid transition from spring to summer. When we compare the daily temperatures of June and July, we can understand why June seemed exceptionally cool and refreshing. The National Weather Service provides remarkable insight into what we can expect regarding climate. They calculate new 30-year norms yearly based on average temperatures from 1991 to 2020. These averages represent what we anticipate in terms of climate.
In June 2023, temperatures were 3.2ºF lower than the long-term average. Although this may not seem significant when averaged over the entire month, one-third of the days experienced temperatures over 10ºF below normal. This deviation from our expectations was something we couldn’t help but notice.
July, on the other hand, presented a stark contrast. While it began moderately, with temperatures slightly above average, it quickly became scorching. On average, July was only 1.5ºF hotter than usual. However, it included 20 days with above-average highs, with 15 days exceeding 5ºF hotter than expected. Additionally, 13 days reached triple-digit temperatures, with July 18th and 25th standing out at a sweltering 105ºF and 106ºF, respectively. July was a hot and challenging month.
But does June’s cooler weather offset July’s heatwave? Can we conclude that there is no climate change? Not. Climate change requires a broader perspective, considering the June and July weather patterns over a couple of hundred years. Thankfully, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has created a tool called “Climate-At-A-Glance,” enabling us to examine climate data dating back to 1895.
Looking closer at Pueblo County’s climate history, we can observe that the average July temperature from 1895 to 2023 is 73.8ºF. However, from 2014 to 2023, July’s temperatures exceeded this average for nine out of the last ten years. Moreover, six of those ten years reported average temperatures over 76ºF. Comparatively, from 1895 to 1904, only two years recorded temperatures higher than the long-term average. These trends indicate a clear and significant shift in climate.
According to NOAA, Earth’s temperature has risen by an average of 0.14°F per decade since 1880, equating to approximately 2°F overall. So, what can we do about it? Climate change primarily stems from increased levels of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere due to various human activities like fossil fuel usage, agriculture, and deforestation.
The Appalachian Mountain Club offers ten practical tips to help lower your carbon footprint. Avoiding single-use plastics, recycling, and reducing food waste are some impactful steps you can take. Additionally, they encourage paying attention to the origin of your food. Opting for locally sourced produce reduces the need for long-distance transportation, reducing fossil fuel usage. Instead of buying imported pineapple, try enjoying peaches from the nearby western slope. Most grocery stores label the origin of their produce, allowing you to make informed choices. Consider growing your vegetables at home for an even more sustainable approach. Fall varieties like salad greens, kale, carrots, peas, and cabbage thrive until the first frost, typically around October 5th in Pueblo County.
In conclusion, understanding the difference between weather and climate helps us appreciate the unique aspects of June and July 2023. While June surprised us with uncharacteristically cool temperatures, July tested our endurance with intense heat. However, these individual months are not sufficient to determine climate change. Long-term climate data reveals a clear rising temperature pattern and climate change impacts.
By adopting sustainable practices and reducing our carbon footprint, we can contribute to mitigating climate change. Small changes, such as avoiding single-use plastics and supporting local produce, can make a significant difference. Let’s take responsibility for our actions and work towards a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
