These images show the difference in snow coverage in North America between this winter and last winter. Two contributing factors for the lack of snow in the winter of 2011-2012 were the positive phase of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) and the La Nina event. During La Nina systems carrying moisture tend to develop less frequently. The diagram of the (AO) shows that during a positive phase, cold air is trapped in its source region over the high latitudes of the northern hemisphere. This blocking supports and strengthens the La Nina. In addition during positive phases of the Arctic Oscillation the jet stream takes a more northern course steering snowstorms towards Alaska.
Even with all of this, I am still holding on to hope for a decent Easter snowfall in New England. We are not going to hike the Teardrop this weekend, but still plan on hitting the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
Winter 2011-2012 Image 3/5/12
Winter 2010-2011 Image 3/3/11
Postive on the left (winter 2011-12 ) Negative on the right
Arctic Oscillation current winter 2011-12
Arctic Oscillation last winter 2010-11
So what does all this mean for the spring and the fall hurricane season? Should I increase my homeowners insurance:-)? What I would love are a couple non-damaging nor'easters that level out the Harvey Cedars Beach... Can you give me that?
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