Richmond's fall temps are on the rise
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Fall in Richmond is getting hotter, according to a new analysis.
Why it matters: Warmer falls could increase cooling demand (and cause bigger bills and more strain on the electric grid); affect growing and allergy seasons; and have health impacts for vulnerable groups.
Driving the news: Between 1970 and 2024, average fall temperatures in Richmond rose by 2.4°F, per a new report from Climate Central, a climate research group.
- That's lower than the national average of 2.8°F.
Zoom out: Reno, Nev (+7.7°F); El Paso, Texas (+6.5°F) and Las Vegas, Nev. (+6.2°F) saw the biggest increases over the covered period.
The intrigue: Harrisonburg was one of three of the examined U.S. cities that had an average fall temperature decrease, dropping by -0.2°F.
- Gainesville, Fla. and Macon, Ga. had the same drop.
How it works: Climate Central's report is based on NOAA data, and defines "fall" as the entirety of September, October and November (meteorological fall).
- Astronomical fall, on the other hand, doesn't start 'til Sept. 22 this year.
What's next: The Climate Prediction Center's latest seasonal outlook for fall forecasts above-normal temperatures for most of the country, especially in the Southwest and Northeast.