Seeing Climate Change in Action: Where are the Blizzards?
Submitted by Will Chen
Winter is one of my favorite seasons of the year to experience. I love the cold air and brisk morning winds. Most of all, I love playing in the snow and watching snowflakes drift down. On winter days, looking out my window and seeing piles of pearly white snow brings me so much joy. However, as each year passes by, the Earth is getting warmer. More specifically, the amount of snowfall in the Northeast has dramatically decreased over the past few years. Many of my happiest memories consisted of snow days, staying indoors, and shoveling the pavement.
Nowadays, I only remember sprinkles of snow each winter. My front lawn would only be covered by less than 1 inch of snow before melting away the next day. Instead of a pile of snow, I often see muddy slush and streams of meltwater heading into the sewer drains. It has become apparent to me that snow days have gotten more sparse. Temperatures don’t seem as cold as they used to be. I understand that many people may not like snow days–as it can be a pain dealing with icy roads and chaotic traffic. However, it is important to note the drastic changes in our environment.
Above, is a chart of the average daily temperature in Delaware dating back to 1895. As you can see, the climate in Delaware has been gradually getting warmer. It is evident that climate change must be observed. Although the graph has been quite volatile, there is a general upward trend. With around a 2.5 degree Fahrenheit increase since 2005, the warming of Delaware’s climate is indeed real and actions must be taken against climate change.
Looking at this chart compiled by NASA, there has been a rise of .89 degrees Celsius from mid-20th century average temperatures. To prevent the Earth from experiencing permanent climate change, world citizens should try to prevent it from rising more than 1.5 degrees Celsius. Consequences include extreme heat waves, droughts, and rising sea levels. As humans, we must protect the Earth and take action. There are many ways to combat climate change: saving energy, recycling, taking public transport, and eating more vegetables. These are very simple actions and as a community, I believe we can fight climate change and bring back our snow.
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