BY: CAROLINE BEATRICE
With record breaking spring temperatures arriving early, many outdoor lovers have already started to notice they have Spring fever.
March 20 is the first day of Spring, but with soaring temperatures, one would not even realize it is technically still winter. New Jersey has shattered weather temperatures from the 1900’s this winter. Typically, winter weather in Jersey is around an average low of 24 degrees in February, with an average high of 39 degrees. Whereas last week temperatures rose as high as 71 degrees.
Background Weather
The change in climate is being blamed on humans for not properly taking care of the Earth. Extreme heat comes with extreme drought, while some experience heavy rains and flooding. More moisture in the air is what is leading to heavier rain. This climate change is leading to severe intense weather patterns including heat waves, droughts, tsunamis, hurricanes and frigid weather. Global warming is a sign that the Earth is not properly being taken care of, as seen by high temperatures this February.
Jan. 12, Trenton nearly matched its old record of 68 degrees set back in 1890.
Tom’s River also experienced record-breaking weather on Jan. 12 when temperature soared up to 70 degrees, breaking the previous record of 63 degrees set in 2006.
Friday, Feb. 24, Buffalo, New York tied its all-time record warmest February temperature and tied its daily record by reaching 71 degrees.
Spring Fever
Though global warming is a rising issue, most people do not seem to mind the beautiful spring-like weather.
“This weather inspires me to get ready for summer,” said marathoner Giana DiTonto, 20 of Lyndhurst. “It just makes me want to go outside and run more. All around I love this weather and it makes me feel great.”
Michelle DeRobertis of Lyndhurst has been spending more time outdoors since the weather has improved. “I’ve been taking my dog to more places. Last week we went to Garrett mountain and to the Brookdale Park.”
She is excited that the weather is warm and overall she feels more inclined to be active and take advantage of the sunshine.
Breana Afonso, 21 of Lyndhurst has been struck with Spring Fever and even took a trip to Lavalette Beach last week. “The water was still too cold, but it felt like it was a cool summer day.” She then went to Seaside Heights to visit Bubba’s Dog House where she ordered thei
r famous Bangin’ Onion Burger. “There is absolutely nothing I love more than taking a road trip to the shore.”
With the warm weather approaching, many find themselves happier and wanting to be more active. Good weather is directly linked to a good mood as seen in psychological studies. More people are inclined to want to be active, leading to a happier lifestyle.
Striking temperatures this winter will lead to sweltering temperatures this summer. Though spring fever is in full effect, it is a warning of what is to come.
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Related Links
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/14/climate-health_n_4568505.html
https://www.nrdc.org/stories/global-warming-101
The audio went well with and added to the story. There’s a lot of good, relevant pictures as well as links so the article came together really well.