If you like heat, you are not happy
SYRACUSE -- The title of this story is a take on the summer of 1992 when that year was dubbed “the summer than never was”. Going back 17 years ago, 1992 notched a whole year where the temperature did not reach 90°. Those of you who enjoy summery heat to relax by the pool are probably grumpy and not wearing a bathing suit. Conversely, if you enjoy a summer that is more comfortable, so far we have pleased your preference. In addition, you have probably saved a few dollars on the utility bill due to less air conditioning usage. If you do not have an air conditioning or central air, you are probably doubly as happy.
Whatever your preference for summer weather is, this season has been anything but seasonable, but not exactly like 1992 either. To date this year, we have received only 12 days of temperatures reaching or exceeding 80°. Back in 1992, up to July 8 we actually had tallied 16 days of 80°. So, technically, we have not been quite as warm as 1992 with respect to actual 80 degree days. In that year did get an additional 22 days of 80° or higher bringing the year total of 80° days to 38 days between April and September. To reach that amount here in Syracuse, we would have to receive 26 additional days of 80° or better. This is certainly possible since we have much of July, August and September left, but no easy feat. Another quirk about comparing 2009 so far and 1992 is that we have already hit 90° this year. We officially hit 91° on April 27, but have not reached that mark since. Back in 1992, we did not even reach 80° until May, and as mentioned before, did not hit 90° once. One more note on summer weather statistics, the summer of 1903 (more than 100 years ago) appears to be the coldest summer on record.
It is important to bear in mind that technically, summer just started a couple of weeks ago on June 21. There is plenty of time for our weather pattern to change. A very small shift in the pattern should allow Syracuse to hit 80° for the first time in July on Friday and again Saturday. Looking over the next 14 days, I still do not see a major shift to blazing heat. Temperatures will probably average near or below normal between days 7 and 14. Further out, it is very difficult to gauge the exact weather pattern. I always like to say “never break a weather pattern until it is broken.” In other words, until I see a definite pattern change in the short or medium term, I will not forecast a major forecast pattern change to higher heat. On one other note, 1992 was an unusually cool summer probably due to the eruption of Mount Pinatubo which sent volcanic ash into the atmosphere and allowed localized cooling. There has not been any such worldwide volcanic activity to cause this type of cooling in the United States. Therefore, there is still a potential that summer heat may build. Stay tuned!
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