The EastCoaster

By: Brianna McAleer

Throughout the east coast, we have experienced a rise in temperatures over the past few weeks. Days that should feel like 30 degrees in Connecticut are reaching numbers into the 50s and 60s. As for more southern states, temperatures have reached well into the 70s this past January and beginning of February. Even Florida has experienced temperatures well into the high 80s during these winter months. Yes, this unexpected warm weather might feel great—the sun shining, birds chirping, and an absence of freezing cold air. However, what we don’t realize is that this warmth is not fitted for our east coast environment around this time of year.

Why is it getting warmer?
To understand why our east coast environment is in jeopardy, we must first analyze why these warm temperatures are occurring. Primarily, the global cause of this warming issue is excess carbon pollution from the burning of fossil fuels (ex: coal, oil, and natural gas). Excess carbon, methane, and nitrous oxide concentrations trapped in our atmosphere are producing a greenhouse warming effect and increasing surface-level temperatures on Earth. According to Climate Central, winters in the US have warmed by an average of 3 degrees Fahrenheit while Northern states have experienced an average of over 5 degrees Fahrenheit winter warming temperatures.¹ Another main factor contributing to this increase in winter climate temperatures is the current jet stream weather pattern that the US is experiencing this year: La Niña. The La Niña jet stream consists of warmer and drier weather conditions. This is typically a rare weather pattern since El Niño is the more prominent jet stream that we experience on the southeastern/eastern seaboard.

Why is our east coast environment in jeopardy?
A warmer climate during the winter can be detrimental to the life cycle of plants and crops. Most plants that grow on the east coast are accustomed to a cooling period throughout their seasonal cycle. Without this cooling period, it makes plants more vulnerable to pests and diseases before their growing season begins. As for crops, higher temperatures during the intended cooling period can yield lower crop production for farms and producers. The fewer crops available for consumption, the more hungry we will all be. Similarly, just as plant life is accustomed to cooling periods, so is the wildlife. Many species of birds, fish, and deer follow strict seasonal migration patterns. For instance, Canadian Geese have started their migration patterns much later than usual due to the warmer temperatures that deplete their food sources in North America.²

How can we help?
The most efficient solution that we can take to reset our natural climate is by decreasing our use of fossil fuels. Unfortunately, fossil fuel use is the most popular form of energy production in the world and can be very hard to decrease. The way in which we can limit our use of fossil fuels is by limiting our energy consumption. For instance, participating in actions like utilizing public transportation, turning off lights, and recycling items can help decrease our fossil fuel emissions and thus produce a more normal climate. How will you help the east coast environment?

1_{Climate Control, “Pollen Season and Climate Change” 3.}

2_{LaNore, “How Does Weather Affect Bird Migration,” 2.}