First freeze coming later in Topeka and Jefferson City
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The first freezing temperatures after summer are coming later on average than they used to in many U.S. cities, including in Kansas and Missouri, a new analysis finds.
Why it matters: It's another indication of fall warming amid a changing climate, which affects farmers, gardeners and allergy sufferers.
Zoom in: Compared to 1970, the first freeze is arriving significantly later in Topeka and Jefferson City — both 19 days on average — which saw the biggest changes near the KC metro.
- St. Joseph was seven days later, while Kansas City was one day later.
- KC's average first freeze date is Oct. 28, per the National Weather Service.
Zoom out: Nearly 90% of the 204 U.S. cities analyzed in a new report from Climate Central show a later first freeze date: 12 days later on average.
- The group defines "first freeze" as the first calendar date from Aug. 1 onwards with low temperatures at or below 32°F.
Caveat: "First freeze" is different from "first frost," which can happen with slightly higher temperatures — and damage frost-intolerant crops.
- While KC temps remain seasonal, frost may already be playing a factor in northern Missouri.
Climate Central's analysis is based on NOAA weather station data.
What's next: NOAA's November-January outlook anticipates an elevated chance of above-normal temperatures for most of the country.