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Category Archives: Climate
When is the last frost?
The growing season is often defined as the number of days between the last time the temperature was 32 degrees in spring and the first time the temperature falls to 32 in fall.
The latest frost in spring is important to gardeners as they seek to plant after a long winter, and for most plants it is wise to do so when the temperatures are likely to remain warmer than 32 degrees.
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How does carbon dioxide affect global warming?
Since 1958, a continuous measurement of the carbon dioxide content of the atmosphere has been made at Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii. These observations were initiated by Charles Keeling, who died in 2005, and have been maintained by his son Ralph ever since.
Sunshine is a manifestation of solar radiation and when it is absorbed by the surface of the Earth, the surface heats up and emits a different kind of radiation, known as infrared radiation. Carbon dioxide is a special chemical in that it is transparent to solar radiation and yet it absorbs infrared radiation. Thus, the presence of carbon dioxode in our atmosphere allows sunshine to penetrate to the surface but inhibits the emission of infrared radiation to space.
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How long were Madison lakes frozen this year?
Lakes Mendota, Monona and Wingra opened during the second week of April.
Lake Mendota officially froze Dec. 16 and opened April 12, for an ice season of 117 days, which is 12 days longer than the median duration. Continue reading
How are we doing with heating degree days this year?
How are we doing with heating degree days this year?
A heating degree day is a weather index designed to make weather data easier to use in planning.
The index estimates fuel consumption needs, and fuel distributors use it to schedule home deliveries. Electric and natural gas utilities predict power demands by adding up this index over time. Continue reading
How unusual is this kind of cold ?
We are at the beginning of the most intense cold air outbreak of the winter thus far with high temperatures today not likely to rise above zero. It may be similarly cold tomorrow. Having two consecutive days in a row … Continue reading
