CIOCS would like to take this opportunity to welcome students back to UMass Boston, where the Spring 2011 semester is kicking off amongst some very frigid temps. As we brace for more snow this week, you might be wondering: what is going on?
The snowy and frigid weather of late appears to be caused by a weakened pattern of atmospheric circulation that usually helps keep colder air in the Arctic region. This weakening is allowing very cold air to blow our way (even to the Southern United States), while warmer air moves north. It is too soon to tell if this winter is any indication of things to come or what kind of role global warming has played. Nevertheless, the next time you hear someone foolishly espouse “so much for global warming- I’m freezing!” you may want to share this article from the New York Times with them.
