-------- 2011 and 2010 --------
December 2011 and Yearly Summary for 2011
Warm December closes out wettest year on record
By Russell Russ
December 2011 was tied with 1982 as the fifth warmest December in the last 80 years. With an average mean temperature of 32.5 degrees it was 7.2 degrees above normal. The month's high temperature of 57 degrees was observed on December 6. The low temperature of 10 degrees was observed on December 19. No daily temperature records were set this month, but overall it was a warm month. The average monthly temperature from December 2010 was nearly 10 degrees colder.
December’s total precipitation amount was 5.33 inches, 0.82 inches above normal. The monthly snowfall total of 3.0 inches was 14.5 inches below normal. Strangely enough, Norfolk had a white Halloween, but we did not have a white Christmas. The snowfall total for this winter season to date, October through December, is 27.1 inches. Thanks primarily to October’s 23.8 inches; this is 2.3 inches above normal for this time period.
It was not an early pond ice year for the area. Many smaller ponds, including Pond Hill Pond and Wood Creek Pond iced over initially during the third week of December, but then lost it and got it back a few times until about December 27 or 28 when they iced over basically for the season. Last year the smaller ponds started forming ice in late November. The larger water bodies like Tobey Pond and Wangum Lake did not form ice at all in December. Last winter both were iced over by December 10 and by December 24 Tobey had a good six inches of ice. Not this winter.
The close of 2011 completed 80 consecutive years of weather recording for this weather station.
In review of Norfolk’s weather for the 2011 calendar year it certainly was one for the record books. With an annual average mean temperature of 47.1 degrees it was 2.4 degrees above normal and tied with 1949 as the sixth warmest year on record. Last year was the fourth warmest year on record. The year of 2011 was also the wettest year in our 80 years of recording the weather. With a total precipitation amount of 77.28 inches it was 24.73 inches above the normal of 52.55 inches. It surpassed the long-standing 1955 record of 76.04 inches by 1.24 inches, quite impressive to say the least. Snowfall for the year totaled 108.1 inches. This was 17.3 inches above the yearly average of 90.8 inches, but by no means near a record for yearly snowfall.
See charts below for further information........................
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| Norfolk, Connecticut | ||||
| "Norfolk 2 SW" Weather Data | ||||
| NWS Cooperative Weather Observer Station #06-5445-01 | ||||
| Recording weather observations since January 1, 1932 | ||||
| Record Yearly Greatest Amounts of Total Precipitation | ||||
| (for years 1932 - 2011) | ||||
| January - December | ||||
| Rank | Years | Total Precipitation | ||
| #1 | 2011 | 77.28 | ||
| #2 | 1955 | 76.04 | ||
| #3 | 1996 | 73.76 | ||
| #4 | 1945 | 69.31 | ||
| #5 | 2008 | 68.21 | ||
| #6 | 1972 | 67.78 | ||
| #7 | 1977 | 64.66 | ||
| #8 | 1938 | 63.97 | ||
| #9 | 1983 | 63.60 | ||
| #10 | 1975 | 63.42 | ||
| #11 | 1951 | 60.87 | ||
| #12 | 1960 | 60.66 | ||
| #13 | 1937 | 60.37 | ||
| #14 | 1979 | 60.23 | ||
| #15 | 1969 | 59.92 | ||
| #16 | 1973 | 59.70 | ||
| #17 | 2003 | 59.49 | ||
| ● For years January 1932 through December 2011 (80 complete years) | ||||
| ● Normal Annual Total Precipitation = 52.55" .... (ave. for years 1932-2010) | ||||
| ● Total Precipitation (rain and melted frozen precipitation) measured in inches | ||||
| R.M. Russ - Dec. 31, 2011 | ||||
| 77.28 - 76.04 = 1.24" |
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| Norfolk, Connecticut | |||||
| "Norfolk 2 SW" Weather Data | |||||
| NWS Cooperative Weather Observer Station #06-5445-01 | |||||
| Recording weather observations since January 1, 1932 | |||||
| Record Warmest Years (for years 1932-2011) | |||||
| (January - December, Temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit) | |||||
| Annual Average Mean Temperature = 44.7 ... (for years 1932-2010) | |||||
| Rank | Years | Average Mean Temperature | |||
| #1 | 1998 | 48.4 | |||
| #2 | 2001 | 48.3 | |||
| #3 | 2002, 2006 | 47.8 | |||
| #4 | 2010 | 47.4 | |||
| #5 | 1990 | 47.2 | |||
| #6 | 1949, 2011 | 47.1 | |||
| #7 | 1991, 1999 | 46.8 | |||
| #8 | 1953 | 46.7 | |||
| #9 | 1938, 1973 | 46.1 | |||
| #10 | 2007, 2008 | 46.0 | |||
| #11 | 2005 | 45.7 | |||
| #12 | 1932 | 45.6 | |||
| #13 | 1937, 1946, 1957 | 45.5 | |||
| #14 | 1933, 1983 | 45.4 | |||
| #15 | 1952, 1959 | 45.3 | |||
| #16 | 1995 | 45.1 | |||
| #17 | 1951, 1984 | 45.0 | |||
| ● For years 1932 through 2011 (80 complete years) | |||||
| ● Since 1990 (the last 22 years) there have been 11 years ranked in the top 10 warmest years. | |||||
| ● Since 1998 (the last 14 years) there have been 9 years ranked in the top 10 warmest years. | |||||
| R.M. Russ - January 2012 | |||||
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November 2011
Warm and Quiet
By Russell Russ
The wild and crazy weather patterns that we’ve experienced since August have seemed to calm down, for now anyway. November was a quiet month weather-wise. This November was tied with 2009 as the third warmest November over the last 80 years. With respect to temperature, total precipitation and snow it was very similar to November 2009. November 2010 was different only in that it was more normal (cooler) in monthly average temperature.
The month’s low temperature of 24 degrees was observed on both October 1 and 6 and the high temperature of 64 degrees was observed on October 9. The average mean temperature was 42.5 degrees, 5.5 degrees above normal. Record daily high temperatures were recorded on two dates. The high of 60 degrees on November 28 surpassed the 58 degrees set back in 1957 and the high of 59 degrees on November 29 surpassed the 57 degrees set back in both 1960 and 1984. The only Novembers to be warmer over the last 80 years were November 2006 with 43.2 degrees and November 2001 with 43.1 degrees.
The total precipitation for the month was 3.00 inches, 1.72 inches below normal. Through November this year, the total precipitation amount was 71.95 inches. For the first eleven months of the year we were 23.91 inches above normal and 19.40 inches over our normal entire yearly average amount of 52.55 inches. The year of 2011, through November, is already the third wettest year in the last 80 years. Norfolk’s record amount of total precipitation for a year was in 1955 when 76.04 inches were recorded. The second most was in 1996 when 73.76 inches were recorded. Doing the math, 2011 will go down as the wettest year on record for our station if we record 4.10 inches or more of total precipitation in December. The December average is 4.51 inches.
This month a total snowfall of just 0.3 inches was recorded. This was 6.4 inches below our normal November snowfall amount, but not record setting by any means.
Through November, the yearly snowfall amount for 2011 was 105.1 inches. Thanks to January and October this was 31.8 inches above normal and 14.3 inches over our normal entire yearly average snowfall amount of 90.8 inches.
This November was much warmer than normal with below average total precipitation and snow. It has been said that November’s weather, especially the latter half of the month, is a good indicator of what the coming winter will be like. We shall see.
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October 2011
Historic October Snowfall
By Russell Russ
The wild and crazy weather patterns are getting wilder and crazier. Following two months of way above normal rainfall and above normal temperatures, in came October with record breaking snowfall. No temperature or total precipitation records were set this month, but the old record for October snowfall was absolutely shattered. With many maples dropping their leaves early and heavy snow in late October it almost seemed like we had the year without a fall. For the people that say there are never any bad foliage years this year might have proven them wrong.
The month’s high temperature of 73 degrees was observed on October 10 and the low temperature of 23 degrees was observed on October 31. The average mean temperature was 49.1 degrees, 1.5 degrees above normal. With one light frost in September and three light frosts in October there were just four frosts before the first snow fell.
The total precipitation for the month was 6.58 inches, 2.30 inches above normal. Through October this year, the total precipitation amount was 68.95 inches. For the first ten months of the year we were an amazing 25.63 inches above normal. After ten months we were 16.40 inches over our normal entire yearly average amount of 52.55 inches. The year of 2011, through October, is already the fourth wettest year in the last 80 years. Norfolk’s record amount of total precipitation for a year was from 1955 when 76.04 inches were recorded. Total precipitation includes rain and frozen precipitation. Snow and sleet is melted down to liquid and that amount is added to the total precipitation amount.
This year it seems like every month has some sort of big weather event. This month’s big event was the record breaking snowfall. To put things in perspective, here are some snowfall statistics for October. Observations have been recorded here for 80 years. The number of years when October has measured at least 2 inches of snow is thirteen, at least 3 inches of snow is four, and over 10 inches of snow is only one. The 80 year average for October is just 0.6 inches.
This month a total snowfall of 23.8 inches was recorded. There were 2.5 inches from the October 27 snow and then 21.3 inches from the October 29-30 storm. Our old October snowfall record of 9.5 inches from the October 4, 1987 storm was more than doubled. Unlike many other towns, our snow was just a bit lighter which spared us from the heavy tree damage that took place in numerous areas across the state. Due to downed trees, branches and power lines, mostly not in Norfolk, the power was knocked out for two to four days for most people in Norfolk and its surrounding towns. It was definitely an October that will be remembered for many years to come.
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October 31, 2011 weather update for the month of October:
Record breaking snowfall for October! This October shattered records for snowfall. Snow fell on two occasions this month. A snowfall amount of 2.5" was measured after the October 27th event and a snowfall amount of 21.3" was measured after the October 29th-30th event. Snow measurement was extremely difficult, but believe me, many different measurements were taken to come up with the official totals. The big storm began around noontime Saturday, October 29th and ended at approximately 4 am on Sunday, October 30th. The old record for most snow in an October storm and for the October monthly total was 9.5" from the October 4, 1987 event. We also recorded 6.8" from a storm on October 10, 1979, the other big snowy October for Norfolk.
So, the snowstorm total of 21.3" is the new record and the monthly snowfall total of 23.8" is the new monthly record for October. Our records go back 80 years.
2011 continues its quest to become the wettest year in our 80 year history here at the weather station. With October's 6.58" of total precipitation the yearly total is now 68.95". Currently the 4th wettest year on record, with two whole months to go. If we get just the average amount of precipitation in November and December we will beat the old record of 76.04" (1955) by over two inches. The total precipitation figure includes rain, sleet and snow. The snow or sleet is melted and then measured and that liquid amount goes towards the total precipitation amount.
R.M. Russ - Oct. 31, 2011
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September 2011
Warm and Wet
By Russell Russ
The month’s high temperature of 81 degrees was observed on September 3 and the low temperature of 38 degrees was observed on both September 17 and 19. The average mean temperature was 63.1 degrees, 4.4 degrees above normal. This September was the third warmest September in the last 80 years. In fact, five of the six warmest Septembers on record have occurred in the last 11 years. The high temperature of 78 degrees on September 27 was a record for that date, beating the 1933 record of 76 degrees. The first frost of the season came on September 19 when many low lying areas saw just a touch of frost.
The big news again this month was the rain. Normally, any given month will have scattered rain throughout the month with one, maybe two, separate larger events. There were three periods during September which produced heavy rainfall totals. Tropical Storm Lee which brought heavy prolonged rain to the southern Gulf States slowly moved over our area and dumped a total of 6.90 inches of rain between September 5 and 8. Another round of rain between September 21 and 24 produced 2.31 inches. Then another slow moving system came in between September 28 and 30 and dumped another 3.98 inches. On the morning of September 29 Norfolk received just over 2 inches in two hours and to top it off, a very heavy downpour during the evening of September 30 dumped one inch in just 15 minutes. There were five thunderstorms observed this month, three were on September 29.
The total precipitation for the month was 13.25 inches, 8.64 inches above normal. It was Norfolk’s sixth wettest month, of any month of the year, since we’ve been recording observations. August 2011 was the fifth wettest month. weather observations have been recorded here for 957 months; we just recorded the fifth and sixth wettest months back to back.
Through September this year, the total yearly precipitation amount was 62.37 inches. This is 23.33 inches above normal through the month of September. With three months to go until the end of the year, we are currently 9.82 inches above our average amount for the entire year. It already is the tenth wettest year over the last 80 years and we still have three months to go. If we get just a little above average precipitation over the final months of the year then 2011 will have a strong chance of becoming the wettest year on record.
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Precipitation Updates - September 30, 2011:
"Norfolk 2 SW" weather Data |
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| NWS Cooperative weather Observer Station #06-5445-01 | |||||
| January 1932 - September 2011 (nearly 80 years) | |||||
| Recording weather observations since January 1, 1932 | |||||
| Precipitation in inches. Total Precipitation is rain, melted snow and sleet. | |||||
Record Monthly Greatest Precipitation Amounts |
|||||
| Rank | month | Year | Precipitation Total | ||
| #1 | August | 1955 | 23.67 | ||
| #2 | October | 1955 | 17.28 | ||
| #3 | October | 2005 | 16.49 | ||
| #4 | September | 1938 | 13.40 | ||
| #5 | August | 2011 | 13.36 | ||
| #6 | September | 2011 | 13.25 | ||
| #7 | December | 1948 | 12.78 | ||
| #8 | May | 1984 | 12.34 | ||
| #9 | September | 1999 | 12.09 | ||
| Average Monthly Precipitation Amounts (for listed months) | |||||
| May | 4.34 | ||||
| August | 4.53 | ||||
| September | 4.61 | ||||
| October | 4.28 | ||||
| December | 4.51 | ||||
| Average Yearly Precipitation Amount | |||||
| 52.55 | |||||
| R.M. Russ - Sept. 2011 | |||||
| Norfolk, Connecticut | ||||||
"Norfolk 2 SW" weather Data |
||||||
| NWS Cooperative weather Observer Station # 06-5445-01 | ||||||
| Recording weather observations since January 1, 1932 | ||||||
Record Precipitation Years (January-December) |
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| For all years 1932-Sept. 2011 (nearly 80 years) | ||||||
| 10 Wettest Years | 10 Driest Years | |||||
| Rank | Year | Total | Rank | Year | Total | |
| 1 | 1955 | 76.04 | 1 | 1965 | 33.89 | |
| 2 | 1996 | 73.76 | 2 | 1935 | 38.06 | |
| 3 | 1945 | 69.31 | 3 | 1946 | 39.52 | |
| 4 | 2008 | 68.21 | 4 | 1964 | 39.59 | |
| 5 | 1972 | 67.78 | 5 | 1957 | 40.61 | |
| 6 | 1977 | 64.66 | 6 | 1949 | 40.76 | |
| 7 | 1938 | 63.97 | 7 | 1939 | 42.07 | |
| 8 | 1983 | 63.60 | 8 | 1980 | 42.17 | |
| 9 | 1975 | 63.42 | 9 | 1933 | 42.33 | |
| 10 | 2011 | 62.37 ** | 10 | 1943 | 42.53 | |
| 11 | 1951 | 60.87 | ||||
| ** Note: 2011 Total is currently only thru Sept. | ||||||
| Average Yearly Precipitation in inches: 52.55 | ||||||
| Precipitation = rain and melted snow, sleet or hail | ||||||
| (Average Yearly Snowfall in inches: 90.8) | ||||||
| R.M. Russ - Sept. 2011 | ||||||
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September 8, 2011 - Precipitation Update:
- Aug. 25 to Aug. 28 ….. 8.33”
- Sept. 5 to Sept. 8 …….. 6.90”
- Total ………………........ 15.23”
- Recorded 15.23” of rain in the last 17 days
- Of these 17 days, rain fell on only 7 of them
- 7 days of rain produced 15.25”
- Recorded 20.26” of rain in the last 6 weeks
- month of August 2011, total rainfall was 13.36”
- Aug. 2011 was 5th wettest month since Jan. 1932 (nearly 80 years)
If we receive no more precipitation from now until the end of this year (unlikely) we will still be 3.47” above normal for the entire year. Total yearly average precipitation amount is 52.55” and through Sept. 8 we have recorded 56.02”.
R.M. Russ - Sept. 2011
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August 2011
Big League Rain
By Russell Russ
The month’s high temperature of 84 degrees was observed on August 1 and the low temperature of 49 degrees was observed on both August 23 and 30. The average mean temperature was 67.2 degrees, just one degree above normal. It is surprising that the temperatures were fairly normal considering the numerous cloudy and rainy days we had in August.
The big news this August was the rain. We were headed for an above average precipitation month anyway and then came Irene. The total precipitation for the month was 13.36 inches, a whopping 8.83 inches above normal. It was Norfolk’s fifth wettest month, of any month of the year, since we began recording observations in January 1932. The wettest month still remains August 1955 when we recorded 23.67 inches. We did not come close to that record, but we did come very close to the September 1938 monthly total of 13.40 inches. It is definitely saying something when you can compare this August with the month that included The Great Hurricane of ’38.
Hurricane Irene hit the coast of North Carolina and ran right up the east coast causing widespread flooding and damage all the way to Vermont. Turning into a tropical storm just prior to hitting the Connecticut coast, Irene still packed a punch with heavy rains which flooded or washed out many roads. The power was out just a few hours for some, but many days for others. We were on the rainy side of the storm, so fortunately missed most of the high winds. The rainfall total during the 24-hour period from 12 p.m. August 27 to 12 p.m. August 28 was 7.39 inches. This was less than a 24-hour total of 10.67 inches recorded during Diane, the second of two hurricanes that hit Norfolk in August 1955, but more than the 5.89 inches that were recorded during a 24-hour period during The Great Hurricane of ’38. In all, Irene dumped 7.71 inches over a span of 27 hours.
Through August this year, the total yearly precipitation amount was 49.12 inches. This is 14.69 inches above normal through August. With four months to go until the end of the year, we are currently just 3.43 inches away from our average amount for the entire year. With hurricane season in full swing, we may reach our normal yearly total before the leaves start to fall. This year has the potential to be one of the wettest years on record for Norfolk.
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July 2011
Turning Up The Heat
By Russell Russ
The month’s low temperature of 50 degrees was observed on July 1 and the high temperature of 93 degrees was observed on July 22. The average mean temperature was 70.8 degrees, 2.8 degrees above normal. It was the sixth warmest July in the last 80 years. Last year July was the third warmest at 71.5 degrees. The warmest July occurred in 1955, with 72.1 degrees.
Two daily temperature records were set this month. The high of 91 degrees on July 21 tied the record high from 1957 for that same date. The high temperature of 93 degrees on July 22 was another record, surpassing the old one of 90 degrees also set in 1957.
Typically, on average, Norfolk gets a temperature of 90 degrees or higher, 2.5 times per year. So far, we have done it twice this year. Amazingly, Norfolk has recorded daily high temperatures of 93 degrees or higher only 22 times over the last 80 years. It has been 95 degrees or higher on just seven days.
There were four thunderstorms observed at the weather station this month, none were severe and none produced hail. The total precipitation for the month was 2.74 inches, 1.57 inches below normal. It was the first month this year that we’ve been significantly below normal. Through July this year, the total yearly precipitation amount is 35.76 inches. This is 5.86 inches above normal.
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June 2011
Thunderstorms Galore
By Russell Russ
June was about average temperature-wise and above average for precipitation. No records were set this month for either temperature or precipitation. It was not really a good month for gardens and definitely not good for trying to get hay out of the fields. Last June was great for growers, but this year was a bit of a struggle.
The month’s low temperature of 43 degrees was observed on June 4 and the high temperature of 87 degrees was observed on both June 1 and 8. The average mean temperature was 64.2 degrees, 0.9 degree above normal. It was not as warm as last year, but was still much warmer than June 2009. On a historical note, the highest temperature ever recorded at the weather station was 101 degrees recorded on June 29, 1933.
The total precipitation for the month was 7.39 inches, 2.64 inches above normal. There were nine thunderstorms observed at the weather station this month. Hail was observed three times, twice in one day.
Strong thunderstorms just over the Massachusetts border during the late afternoon of June 1 produced several tornadoes in the Springfield area. The strongest storm formed near Canaan, went just north of Norfolk, and really strengthened over central Massachusetts. It is unusual to have such strong tornadoes in New England.
A thunderstorm during the afternoon of June 9 produced some of the largest hail that has been recorded in many years here in Norfolk. Hailstones up to one and a half inches in diameter, or ping pong ball size as the National weather Service categorizes them, were observed in numerous locations in town, including at the weather station. Wind damage associated with this storm knocked the power out in several locations around town. Many other towns experienced wind damage which delayed the power company’s response time for Norfolk repairs.
Through June this year, the total precipitation amount was 33.02 inches. This is 7.43 inches above normal. We are still doing very well in the groundwater department.
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May 2011
A Cloudy May
By Russell Russ
In late April it seemed that we turned the tide and finally entered early summer, but most of May was similar to most of April with cool and cloudy weather. It was difficult to get more than one nice day in a row during most of the month. Was the cool weather ever going to break? It finally did during the later half of the month and we warmed up and cleared out a little.
The month’s low temperature of 37 degrees was observed on both May 1 and 2. The high temperature of 84 degrees was observed on May 27. May seemed cooler than normal, and remained so for most of the month, but it actually ended up being just a little above normal. The average mean temperature this month was 57.3 degrees, 2.7 degrees above the May normal. The warmest May on record was in 1991 with an average mean temperature of 59.7 degrees.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 4.29 inches, just 0.05 inches below normal. A majority of the month’s rain fell between May 16 and May 21. It was our first month with below normal precipitation (just barely) since January. For the 2010 calendar year, through May, the total precipitation amount was 25.63 inches, 4.79 inches above normal. There were four thunderstorms, including one that occurred during the morning of Memorial Day. This unfortunately resulted in Norfolk’s annual Memorial Day Parade being held without any marching bands. The storm passed and the rain had stopped by 9 a.m., but by then it was too late.
There was not even a trace of snowfall this month. This is a little unusual, but not unheard of. May’s average snowfall amount is 0.4 inches. For the calendar year, through May, the total snowfall amount was 81.0 inches, 15.0 inches above normal. A final look at the 2010-11 winter season snowfall amount shows that Norfolk recorded 98.4 inches from November through April. This is 7.6 inches above normal. January alone added 50.0 inches to these totals. It is a bit hard to believe, but the last time we saw more than about three inches of snowfall was way back in early February.
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April 2011
Winter comes to a close
By Russell Russ
April was our third consecutive month with above average precipitation totals. It sure seemed wet, cloudy and cool for most of the month. Where was spring this year? We finally started to get a taste of it near the end of the month. It took a while, but the long, cool grasp of winter finally let go.
The month’s low temperature of 25 degrees was observed on April 9. The high temperature of 82 degrees was observed on April 26. The high temperature of 82 on April 26 tied the 2009 record high for that. The average mean temperature this month was 45.8 degrees, 2.8 degrees above normal. April 2010 was Norfolk’s warmest April on record, but this year it was just a little above normal.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 6.22 inches, 1.92 inches above normal. There was some form of precipitation recorded on twenty-one of the thirty days this month and most of it was in the form of rain. Thunderstorms were observed on April 26 and 28, but the heaviest rains came without thunder on April 16 and 17 when 2.59 inches fell in nearly 12 hours. There was 3.7 inches of snowfall during the month, 2.5 inches below normal. It is unusual, but not unheard of, to have no snow at all during the month of April.
The snowfall total for this winter season, October through April, is now at 98.4 inches, 8 inches above normal. As is fairly typical for Norfolk, the snowiest months were December, January and February. March was a bit of a disappointment with regards to snowfall this year. Had it not been for January being 29 inches above normal we would have been back to our usual below normal for snowfall that we have been recording regularly over that last ten to fifteen years. For the calendar year through one third of 2011 the snowfall total of 81 inches is 15.4 inches above normal.
Although many locations lost a continuous snow cover by the middle of March, at the station there was snow on the ground up to April 10. Many small ponds lost their ice early in the month, but Tobey Pond and Wangum Lake held on until April 12. Over the previous two years we lost our snow cover and pond ice by mid to late March. Old Man Winter held on a little longer this year.
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March 2011
Winter holding on
By Russell Russ
The month’s low temperature of 5 degrees was observed on March 3. The high temperature of 61 degrees was observed on March 18. No temperature records were set this month. The average mean temperature was 31.3 degrees, 0.7 degree above normal. Last year was Norfolk’s third warmest March on record and five of our ten warmest Marches have occurred since 1995, but this year was just about normal as far as temperatures go.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 6.80 inches, 2.29 inches above normal. It was the eleventh wettest March in the last 80 years. The wettest March was in 1953 when 10.37 inches were measured. This March may have been a wet one, but last year was even wetter. Last March with 7.51 inches was the sixth wettest March on record.
March’s snowfall total was only 4.9 inches, 13.2 inches below normal. It was Norfolk’s eighth lowest March snowfall total. The record for least snowfall in March was in 1946 when only half an inch fell. Last year was the fifth least amount of snow recorded in March, with just 2.7 inches falling. Five of our ten least snowy Marches have occurred since 1995.
We can get some rather large snowfall totals in March, and you don’t have to go that far back to find them. We received over 30 inches of snow in both 2005 and 2001. Our greatest monthly snowfall for any month came in March of 1956 when 73.6 inches fell. Oh, what a fickle month March can be.
Although many locations lost snow cover by the middle of the month, there was snow on the ground at the weather station everyday in March with depths ranging from 24 inches down to nine inches. Most local lakes and larger ponds were still ice covered throughout the month. In 2009 and 2010, we lost our snow cover and pond ice by mid to late March.
The snowfall total for this winter season, October through March, is now at 94.7 inches, 10.5 inches above normal and 3.9 inches above our average entire season amount. For the first quarter of 2010 we are 17.9 inches above normal for snowfall and 2.92 inches above normal for total precipitation. As far as groundwater is concerned, we are off to a good start in 2011.
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February 2011
Back to Normal
By Russell Russ
The month’s low temperature of minus 2 degrees was observed on February 11. The high temperature of 54 degrees was observed on both February 17 and 18. On February 17 it was a record high temperature for that date, surpassing the old record of 52 set in 1981. The monthly average mean temperature was 22.2 degrees, 0.3 degree above normal. The month of February is typically when we get most of our lowest temperature readings, but this one was fairly tame.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 4.57 inches, 0.94 inch above normal. February’s snowfall total was 22.4 inches, 2.1 inches above normal. The month started out on a snowy note, making it seem like we were in for more of what January dished out, but after the first week the weather patterns changed. Norfolk was on the rainy side of most of the later storms. Last year February was the big snowfall month with a total of 35.3 inches. This year it was January’s turn. There was a deep snow cover on the ground at the station every day this month with depths ranging from 22 to 32 inches.
The snowfall total for this winter season, October through February, is 89.8 inches, 23.7 inches above normal. At the end of February we were just one inch below our normal entire season average.
So far, for the two months of 2011 we are at 72.4 inches of snowfall, 31.1 inches above normal, and 8.32 inches for total precipitation, 0.63 inch above normal. Norfolk’s 80 year averages are 90.8 inches of snowfall per year and 52.55 inches of total precipitation per year.
Snow core measurements were taken several times during the month to determine the amount of water that was sitting on the ground in the form of snow and ice. February 7 with 28 inches of snow on the ground contained 6.9 inches of water. February 15 with 27 inches of snow contained 7.5 inches of water. February 27 with 26 inches of snow contained 7.9 inches of water. These figures show nearly two months worth of water sitting on the ground. This will become very important to forecasters as we approach the spring thaw.
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January 2011
Record Snowfall
By Russell Russ
The month’s high temperature of 55 degrees was observed on January 1. The low temperature of minus 14 degrees was observed on January 24. This was a record low for that date, beating the old record of minus 11 degrees set back in 1948. The average mean temperature this month was 19.0 degrees, 1.7 degrees below the January average.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 3.75 inches, 0.31 inches below normal. If you do not like snow then stop reading here because this month was all about snow. January’s snowfall total was a very impressive 50.0 inches, 29 inches above normal and it was record setting. While a number of locations throughout the state recorded their snowiest January, and in some cases their snowiest of any month, Norfolk came close, but still fell just a little short of reaching its snowiest on record. It was Norfolk’s second snowiest January and the fourth snowiest of any month since we began keeping records in 1932.
During the big storm on January 12 a snowfall total of 21.7 inches was measured at the station. Snowfall totals varied widely throughout the region and the state. In an odd twist, central Connecticut recorded more snowfall in a number of storms this month. Typically Litchfield County and Norfolk in particular, receive higher snowfall amounts than other parts of the state.
Here are Norfolk’s top six snowiest months, with snowfall measured in inches: March 1956, 73.6; February 1969, 52.4; January 1987, 50.5; January 2011, 50.0; February 1967, 48.4; January 1961, 48.1.
Twenty of the month’s thirty-one days saw precipitation and just about all of it was the frozen kind. There was snow on the ground at the station every day this month, with depths ranging from four to twenty-eight inches. We have had a continuous snow cover since December 14.
The snowfall total for this winter season (October through January) is now at 67.4 inches. This is 21.6 inches above normal and 32.1 inches above where we were through January last year. The heading for the January 2010 weather summary was “Where’s the Snow?”, but we certainly didn’t have to ask that question this year.
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December 2010 and Yearly Summary for 2010
Colder than average December closes out fourth warmest year on record
By Russell Russ
December 2010 was the coldest December we’ve seen since the year 2000. With an average mean temperature of 22.6 degrees it was 2.7 degrees below normal. The month's high temperature of 55 degrees was observed on December 1. The low temperature of 5 degrees was observed on both December 10 and 17. With numerous cold and windy days, wind chill temperatures fell into the single digits many times and even below zero on several occasions.
December’s total precipitation amount was 6.20 inches, 1.72 inches above normal. The monthly snowfall total of 17.3 inches was very near normal, being just 0.2 inch below normal. If you are keeping track, Norfolk had about two inches of snow on the ground for Christmas, giving us just barely a white Christmas once again. The largest snowfall of the month, and season so far, was the 11.5 inches that fell December 26 and 27, during the so called Blizzard of 2010. Snowfall totals were extremely difficult to measure due to the blowing and drifting snow. Initial forecasts predicted up to two feet of snowfall, but in the end we got about half that. The snowfall total for this winter season to date, October through December, is 17.4 inches. This is 7.4 inches below the normal for this time period.
Many smaller ponds, including Pond Hill Pond, iced over for the season on December 6, two days earlier than last year. The smaller ponds initially iced up on November 28, but lost it with rain and warm temperatures on November 30. Wangum Lake iced over on December 9, nine days earlier than last year, and Tobey Pond iced over on December 10, also nine days earlier than last year. By December 24 Tobey was carrying about six inches of ice.
In review of Norfolk’s weather for the 2010 calendar year it was quite a bit warmer than normal, a little wetter than normal, but had less snow than normal. The yearly mean temperature was 47.4 degrees, 2.7 degrees above average. It was Norfolk’s fourth warmest year in the last 79 years. Only 1998 with 48.4 degrees, 2001 with 48.3 degrees, and 2006 and 2002 with 47.8 degrees were warmer years. The yearly total precipitation amount was 55.84 inches. This was 3.30 inches above normal and just 0.14 inch above the 2009 yearly total. Snowfall for the year totaled 70.6 inches. This was 20.3 inches below the yearly average and 6.4 inches below the 2009 yearly total, but by no means a record for least amount of yearly snowfall.
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November 2010
Between fall and winter is November
By Russell Russ
Most of the leaves had fallen by early in the month and for most of the month it was not quite cold enough for snow. November, as usual, was somewhere between fall and winter. It may have felt cold, but this November’s temperatures were just about average for this time of year in Norfolk. Except for a couple of really wet days there wasn’t much rain and there were only a few days with a light dusting of snow. No records were set for either temperature or precipitation. Basically your typical cool, cloudy and some would say dreary month of November.
The month’s high temperature of 60 degrees was observed on November 13 and the low temperature of 20 degrees was observed on November 29. The average mean temperature this month was 37.6 degrees, just 0.7 degree above normal. Except for a week’s worth of above average daily temperatures during the middle part of the month the temperatures over the entire month were fairly uniform.
It was cold enough on November 28 for some of the smaller local ponds to freeze over, but their ice went out on November 30 when temperatures topped 50 degrees. It is highly likely that November passed without providing any local pond ice skating opportunities.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 2.99 inches, 1.77 inches below normal. For the 2010 calendar year, through November, the total precipitation amount was 49.64 inches, 1.66 inches above normal.
The month of November average snowfall amount is 6.8 inches, but this November had five days with just flurries which all added up to only a trace amount. There was also one day with a little freezing rain and some sleet. The monthly total for snowfall was just 0.1 inch, which was in the form of sleet, not snow. The National weather Service includes sleet in their snowfall category. As of the end of November our 2010 snowfall total was 53.3 inches, 20.4 inches below normal. It is looking like another below average snowfall year. If December is a bust for snow this year we could easily be placing 2010 on Norfolk’s “top ten” list for least amount of yearly snowfall.[Top] ___________________________________________________________________________________________
October 2010
First Snow Flurries of the Season
By Russell Russ
As predicted at the end of September, the early October rains did help put us back on the plus side for yearly precipitation levels. October was a wet and cooler than we’ve come accustomed to month. It was above average by far for rain and actually a little above normal for temperature.
The month’s low temperature of 32 degrees was observed on October 19 and our high temperature of 72 degrees was observed on October 26. The high of 72 degrees on October 26 was a record high for that date, beating the old record of 71 degrees set in 1963. The average mean temperature this month was 48.8 degrees, 1.2 degrees above normal. There were nine days with frost observed at the station. The first official frost of the season at the weather station occurred on October 10. Other areas around town may have reported earlier or additional days with frost, mostly low lying areas, but due to the station’s elevation it can sometimes have warmer temperatures on cool, calm fall mornings.
The official total precipitation recorded for the month was 9.50 inches, or 5.30 inches above normal. Determining final totals for October again could seem a bit confusing because heavy rains that fell during the last day of September actually get added to October’s total. Taking into account the 1.55 inches of rain that fell on September 30 between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight, the total for October could be considered by some to be just 7.95 inches, still an impressive figure that would have ranked it as tied with 1989 as the sixth wettest October. As it stands officially, with 9.50 inches, this October was the fifth wettest October in the last 79 years. The October 1955 record of 17.28 inches still stands as the wettest October on record.
We saw our first snow flurries of the season on October 22. It only lasted about three hours and didn’t accumulate, but it was snow. The average monthly snowfall for October is 0.6 inches. As of the end of October, the yearly precipitation total stands at 46.65 inches which is now 3.43 inches above normal. Now that we are in the season for snow we can once again look at the yearly snowfall total for 2010. As of the end of October we are at 53.2 inches for the year which is 13.7 inches below normal through October. Through October we are now 38.0 inches below our normal yearly average of 91.2 inches.
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September 2010
A month of Transition
By Russell Russ
September truly was a month of transition. It began right where August left off, with warm temperatures and very dry conditions. Then, during the last week of the month, our weather pattern changed. In came the rain. Two big storms pumped in moisture from as far south as Florida and dumped record amounts of rain throughout the Northeast U.S. Parts of Connecticut, Norfolk included, picked up some impressive rain totals.
The month’s high temperature of 89 degrees was observed on September 2 and our low temperature of 38 degrees was observed on September 21. Norfolk flirted with record high temperatures during the first few days of the month and did set a new record for September 24 with a high temperature of 83, beating the old record of 81 set for this date in 1937. There were reports of scattered frost in the area during the morning of September 21, but no frost was observed at the weather station or in areas near it. The average mean temperature this month was 62.4 degrees, 3.7 degrees above normal. It was Norfolk’s fifth warmest September in the last 79 years. Four of the five warmest Septembers on record have occurred in the last ten years.
The official precipitation total recorded for the month was 3.36 inches, or 1.30 inches below normal. Determining final totals for September was difficult because heavy rains fell during the last day of the month. The National weather Service will record the total as 3.36 inches, but taking into account the rain that fell September 30 between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight, the total was 4.91 inches.
September’s lack of rain nearly set a record through the 27th. Then the rains came. A good eighty percent of the monthly rain came during the last four days of the month. About forty percent of the monthly rain came between 6:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on September 30. The rains continued into early October. October will have some serious rain totals. As of September 30, 2010, the yearly precipitation total stands at 37.15 inches, which is 1.87 inches below normal. October figures will most certainly bring us back to above normal levels for the year.
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August 2010
Fairly Typical for Norfolk
By Russell Russ
The month’s high temperature of 85 degrees was observed on August 9. The low temperature of 47 degrees was observed on August 28. The average mean temperature this month was 67.8 degrees, 1.6 degrees above the August normal.
Temperatures were fairly typical for August. There were thirteen days with temperatures at or above the 80 degree mark. There were no days at or above 90 degrees, and no days with record temperatures. There were some cooler days toward the end of the month, but we did not get a big cold snap as we frequently can get during the month of August.
The weather station, on average, gets to 90 degrees or above 2.5 times per year. This year at the station the temperature broke 90 degrees twice, both in July. By contrast, at the end of August the official station at Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks had 31 days at or above 90 degrees for the year. Bradley Airport’s average is 18 days per year, their record is 38 days. As many of us know, there is a big temperature difference between Norfolk and Bradley Airport (and Hartford). The proof is in the numbers.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 3.90 inches, 0.63 inch below normal. It seemed like a dry month, but it ended up being only a little below normal. A majority of the monthly rain came in only a handful of days, with only three thunderstorms observed at the station this month. For the 2010 calendar year, through August, the total precipitation amount is 33.79 inches, 0.57 inch below normal.
As is typical for Norfolk, there was some coloring starting to show in the trees around the second week of August. By the end of the month there was noticeable coloring in many locations around town. Autumn is just around the corner.
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June and July 2010
What a difference a year makes
By Russell Russ
June was close to average weather-wise. No records were set for either temperature or precipitation. It was a great month for fruit and vegetable growing. Many plants were nearly two weeks ahead of schedule. Compared to last year, this June was a real gem for growers.
The month’s low temperature of 43 degrees was observed on June 9 and the high temperature of 86 degrees was observed on June 24. The average mean temperature was 65.8 degrees, 2.5 degrees above normal and 4.1 degrees above last June’s average. In June 2009, we reached 80 degrees just once. This year we topped 80 degrees ten times and reached 79 degrees five times.
The total precipitation for the month was 4.32 inches, 0.38 inch below normal. There were seven thunderstorms observed at the weather station this month. None were severe in strength. Through June this year, the total precipitation amount was 26.16 inches, 0.58 inch above normal. Just about average.
July, on the other hand, was a record setter for warmth. There were no individual daily records, but as a month it was the third warmest July in the last 79 years. Only July 1955 with an average temperature of 72.1 degrees and July in the years 1935 and 2006, with average temperatures of 71.7 degrees, were warmer. Nearly half of July experienced typical hazy, hot and humid weather. Comparing again to last year, this July was much warmer. Last July was the fifth coolest on record with just one day at or above 80 degrees. This year there were 21 days at or above 80 degrees, including two days above 90 degrees. Another two days reached 79 degrees.
The month’s low temperature of 51 degrees was observed on July 1, 2, 3 and on the 31st. The high temperature of 92 degrees was observed on July 6 and 7. The average mean temperature was 71.5 degrees, 3.5 degrees above normal and 6.4 degrees above last July’s average.
The total precipitation was 3.73 inches, 0.52 inch below normal. There were six thunderstorms. A few packed a punch, but caused no severe damage locally. During the afternoon of July 21, Norfolk was just to the north of a strong storm cell that produced confirmed tornados in numerous towns from Sharon to Bristol. Through July, the total precipitation for the year was 29.89 inches, just 0.06 inch above normal.
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May 2010
Another Record Setting Warm month
By Russell Russ
The month’s low temperature of 28 degrees was observed on May 11. The high temperature of 87 degrees was observed on both May 2 and May 26. The average mean temperature this month was 58.8 degrees, 4.2 degrees above the May normal. There were two record high temperatures this month. The high temperature of 84 degrees on May 1 replaced the 81 recorded in 1936 and the high of 87 degrees on May 2 shattered the 80 recorded in 1933. It was Norfolk’s fourth warmest May in the last 79 years. The warmest May on record was in 1991 with an average mean temperature of 59.7.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 2.89 inches, 1.46 inches below normal. For the 2010 calendar year, through May, the total precipitation amount is 21.84 inches, 0.96 inch above normal. There were six thunderstorms this month, but around here none were severe in nature.
With very light flurries falling on two separate days there was a trace of snowfall this month. The May normal snowfall amount is 0.4 inches. For the calendar year, through May, the total snowfall amount is 53.2 inches, 13.1 inches below normal. A final look at the 2009-10 winter season snowfall amount shows that Norfolk recorded 73.3 inches from October through May. This is 17.9 inches below normal. It is a bit hard to believe, but the last time we saw more than two inches of snowfall was way back on February 27.
May started and ended on the warm side, but we did have a few cool mornings during the second week of the month. There was a hard frost at the weather station and many locations during the early morning of May 11 when some lower elevation locations around town dipped into the mid to upper 20’s. We missed a record low temperature on May 11 by just one degree. The record warm temperatures over the last few months resulted in a much earlier blooming year for many plants. The lilacs, laurel and many others were nearly two weeks ahead of normal.
A very interesting optical phenomenon occurred over the skies of Norfolk on May 17 when a circumhorizontal arc appeared around noontime. A circumhorizontal arc is a huge, multi-colored band running parallel to the horizon with its center beneath the sun. Often only parts of the band are displayed in the high cirrus clouds, but on this day one whole cloud was lit up with this bright coloring. The phenomenon only occurs when the sun is high in the sky and is formed by sunlight entering horizontally-oriented flat hexagon ice crystals through a vertical side face and leaving through the near horizontal bottom face. Where you are located on the Earth determines who can see one. The factors involved in its formation are not all that rare in the Continental U.S., but it still is not a common thing to see. It is the first one I’ve ever seen and because of its size and brightness it startled me when I first saw it. Luckily it lasted for a good half hour and even better, I had my camera with me at the time.
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April 2010
Warmest April on Record
By Russell Russ
The month’s high temperature of 85 degrees was observed on April 7. The low temperature of 31 degrees was observed on April 14. There were two record high temperatures set this month. The high temperature of 72 degrees on April 2 beat the 1934 record of 70 degrees for that date and the high of 85 on April 7 beat the 1991 record of 81 degrees for that date. At the weather station there were only two days at or below 32 degrees. The average mean temperature this month was 49.4 degrees, 6.5 degrees above normal.
It was Norfolk’s warmest April in the last 79 years, as far back as our records go. The second warmest April was 1945 with an average mean temperature of 48.7 degrees. Three of our top four warmest and five of our top ten warmest Aprils have all occurred within the last nine years. Windsor Locks, CT reported it as their warmest April in 105 years.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 1.94 inches, 2.41 inches below normal. With only two days with light flurries there was no measurable snowfall this month, making it 6.3 inches below normal. It is unusual, but not unheard of, to have no snow during the month of April.
The snowfall total for this winter season, October through April, is now at 73.3 inches, 17.5 inches below normal. For the calendar year the snowfall total of 53.2 inches is 12.7 inches below normal. Our total precipitation of 18.95 inches since January is 2.42 inches above normal. The precipitation has come, but with record warmth in both March and April, it just hasn't come as much in the form of snow.
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March 2010
Third Warmest March on Record
By Russell Russ
The month’s high temperature of 65 degrees was observed on March 19, 20 and 21. It was a record high for March 19, beating the old record of 60 degrees set in 1945. The low temperature of 17 degrees was observed on March 27. The average mean temperature this month was 38.4 degrees, 7.9 degrees above normal. It was Norfolk’s third warmest March in the last 79 years, being surpassed only by 1946 with 40.9 degrees and 1945 with 40.4 degrees. Five of our ten warmest Marches have occurred since 1995. In Albany, NY it was the tenth warmest March in the last 191 years.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 7.51 inches, 3.02 inches above normal. It was the sixth wettest March in the last 79 years. The wettest March was in 1953 when 10.37 inches were measured. March’s snowfall total was a mere 2.7 inches, 15.7 inches below normal. It was Norfolk’s fifth lowest March snowfall total. The least amount of March snow over the last 79 years came in 1946 when only 0.5 inches fell. The last day with measurable snow on the ground at the station was March 22. It was gone one week earlier than last year. In Albany, NY it was the fifth least snowiest March in the last 126 years.
The snowfall total for this winter season, October through March, is now at 73.3 inches, 11.2 inches below normal. What a difference a month makes. At the end of February we were 4.5 inches above normal. For the first quarter of 2010 we are 6.4 inches below normal for snowfall, but 4.83 inches above normal for total precipitation.
The ice went out on local ponds and lakes about four to five days earlier this year than last year. Tobey Pond went out on March 25 while Wangum Lake went out on March 26. This is earlier than normal, but not all that record breaking. Typically the ice goes out anywhere from the last week of March to the first or second week of April.
Early reports indicate that it was not a particularly good year for maple syrup making in Connecticut. It was a month marked by flooding in many Connecticut locations. Norfolk and Litchfield County did get more rainfall than normal, but we were spared the record setting flooding that hit parts of southern Connecticut.
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February 2010
Finally some snow
By Russell Russ
The month’s low temperature of 5 degrees was observed on February 7. The high temperature of 42 degrees was observed on February 22. The average mean temperature this month was 24.1 degrees, 2.3 degrees above normal. The trend which started back in December of having the average daily high temperatures lower than normal and the average daily low temperatures higher than normal continued through the month of February. This may or may not be something of great importance, but it sure seems to be the norm for this winter. February is typically when we get most of our lowest temperature readings.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 5.74 inches, 2.12 inches above normal. February’s snowfall total was 35.3 inches, 15.1 inches above normal. It was Norfolk’s ninth highest snowfall total for the month of February in the last 79 years. It was the most snow we’ve seen in a February since the 39.9 inches we got back in 1972. The two late February storms that hit between February 22 and 27 all by themselves exceeded our normal monthly amounts for precipitation and snowfall. There was snow cover on the ground at the station every day this month with depths ranging from 5 to 23 inches.
February gave us our largest snowstorm of the season to date. The storm that hit February 22 to 24 dumped a total of 16.1 inches of snow on Norfolk. The snowfall total for this winter season, October through February, is now at 70.6 inches, 4.5 inches above normal. So far, for the two months of 2010 we are at 50.5 inches of snowfall, 9.3 inches above normal, and 9.50 inches for total precipitation, 1.81 inches above normal.
Snow core measurements were taken several times during the month to determine the amount of water that was sitting on the ground in the form of snow and ice. At the end of the month, after February’s three big storms, we had nearly 5 inches of water equivalent in the nearly 20 inches of snow and ice on the ground. This will become important to forecasters as we approach the spring thaw. It all seems to be pointing towards a big mud season in the coming month or two.
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January 2010
Where's the Snow?
By Russell Russ
The month’s high temperature of 53 degrees was observed on January 25. This tied the 1938 record high temperature for that date. The low temperature of minus 5 degrees was observed on January 30. The average mean temperature this month was 22.0 degrees, 1.2 degrees above the January average.
January was similar to December in that the average daily high temperatures were lower than normal, while the average daily low temperatures were higher than normal. This may or may not be some sort of trend forming, but it is something to watch for the rest of the winter.
The total precipitation recorded for the month was 3.76 inches, 0.31 inches below normal. January’s snowfall total was 15.2 inches, 5.8 inches below normal. There was snow cover on the ground at the station every day this month, with depths ranging from 3 to 9 inches. The snowfall total for this winter season (October through January) is now at 35.3 inches. This is 10.6 inches below normal and 11.8 inches below where we were through January last year.
In the month of January, we did not top the seven-inch snowfall that came during the snowstorm on December 9. It is hard to believe that Norfolk cannot get more than seven inches in one storm, while places like Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. are getting buried in snow. Even southern parts of Connecticut are getting more snow than us.
One of Norfolk’s weather highlights from January was when we received over 2.25 inches of rain during a twelve-hour period on January 25. The warm temperatures and heavy rain caused some minor problems in the region, including a mudslide along Route 44 here in Norfolk.
Even without much snow and a record high temperature, it still felt like winter. By the end of January, after freezing-over around December 19, both Wangum Lake and Tobey Pond were covered with 14 to 16 inches of ice. Temperatures were pretty cold, and we had what seemed like more than our fair share of windy days. There were several days where wind chill temperatures hit minus 10 to minus 20 degrees. On the morning of January 30, one of the weather stations at Great Mountain Forest recorded a wind chill temperature of minus 26 degrees.[Top]
