Detroit's cold streaks are getting shorter
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Despite the beautiful weather Monday, we're not putting winter behind us entirely.
By the numbers: Detroit's cold weather streaks are eight days shorter on average since 1970, per a new analysis from Climate Central, a climate research and communications nonprofit.
Why it matters: Few people love chilled-to-the-bone cold snaps — but extended periods of chilly weather are key for some farmers and for winter sports lovers.
Reality check: Prolonged cold snaps still happen — Detroit's longest of 2023 lasted six days.
Flashback: The city's longest cold streak between 1970 and 2023 came in 1977, lasting 39 days.
The big picture: On average, cold streaks are largely shrinking nationwide as climate change takes its toll.
- "Winter's longest cold streaks have gotten shorter since 1970 in 98% of 240 U.S. locations analyzed," per Climate Central's report.