Category Archives: History

Do you read the “Farmer’s Almanac” for weather forecasts?

Posted on February 7, 2022 by WeatherGuys Editor

No, not seriously.

There are two publications of a “farmer’s almanac.” “The Old Farmer’s Almanac” has been in publication since 1792. Then there’s the “Farmers’ Almanac,” which has been in publication since 1818.

Both publications contain what is typical of almanacs in general — planting dates, tide tables, various astronomical and astrological information, content typically contained in almanacs. They also offer gardening tips as well as jokes and whimsical columns. These two publications also predict the general weather for the coming year. Continue reading →

Category: History, Seasons

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How did it ever get so cold on Jan. 30, 1951?

Posted on January 31, 2022 by WeatherGuys Editor

On the morning of Jan. 30, 1951, the temperature in Madison fell to its all-time record low of minus 37 degrees.

It is difficult to put that amazing record low in perspective. Consider that the coldest morning of this winter season was less than a week ago, when the temperature Wednesday dropped to minus 18 — a full 19 degrees warmer than the all-time record. Continue reading →

Category: History, Seasons, Severe Weather

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Is permafrost permanent?

Posted on January 10, 2022 by WeatherGuys Editor

Permafrost is ground that has a temperature below freezing for at least two consecutive years.

Permafrost varies in thickness from less than a couple of feet to more than 4,000 feet thick. Permafrost is mostly located in polar regions, although it also occurs in some high mountains where it is called alpine permafrost. Much of the permafrost in Alaska is tens of thousands of years old. Continue reading →

Category: Climate, History

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What impact did Sputnik have on weather monitoring and predictions?

Posted on October 5, 2021 by WeatherGuys Editor

Sixty-four years ago the Soviet Union launched Sputnik, the first artificial satellite. This was not welcome news in the United States as it confirmed that the Soviets were well ahead of us in the development of rocket technology. In fact, … Continue reading →

Category: Climate, History

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How often does New England deal with hurricanes?

Posted on August 23, 2021 by WeatherGuys Editor

New England dealt with Tropical Storm Henri over the past weekend — nearly the first hurricane to make landfall in New England in 30 years.

As it turns out, that long interval between landfalling hurricanes in that region is unusually long. Continue reading →

Category: History, Meteorology, Severe Weather, Tropical

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