Why it has essentially stopped snowing in D.C. during December

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Washington Post or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: December snowfall in Washington, D.C., has significantly declined in recent years, with only 0.5 inches accumulating over the past six Decembers combined
• This is well below the 1991-2020 average of 1.7 inches per December
• If this December remains snowless, it will mark the least snowy seven-year stretch of Decembers on record for the District

🔭 The context: Historically, D.C.'s average December temperature was in the mid-30s Fahrenheit in the late 1800s
• In recent decades, it has risen to the low 40s, reducing the likelihood of snowfall
• This warming trend has also delayed the season's first measurable snowfall from mid-December to early January

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The decrease in December snowfall in D.C. reflects broader climate change impacts, including rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns
• These changes can disrupt ecosystems, water resources, and local economies dependent on seasonal weather patterns

⏭️ What's next: Climate projections suggest that without significant mitigation efforts, winter temperatures will continue to rise, further diminishing snowfall in the region
• This trend underscores the urgency for comprehensive climate action to address and adapt to ongoing environmental changes

💬 One quote: "Climate change seems to be melting away the city’s snow chances." — The Washington Post

📈 One stat: D.C.'s average December snowfall has decreased from about 4 inches in the late 1800s and early 1900s to less than 2 inches in recent decades

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