Stet weather: Warmer, drier winter on tap

Nonprofit Climate Central measured data for 235 U.S. locations.

Palm Beach County winters have grown milder since 1970, and the increase in temperatures here is in line with most of the country, according to a new study.

Why it matters: Meteorological winter, which starts Dec. 1, is the fastest-warming season for most of the United States, experts at the nonprofit Climate Central report.

• Winters have warmed in 235 locations including West Palm Beach from 1970 to 2024 — by an average of 4°F. 
• The top winter warming locations were: Burlington, Vt. (8.2°F); Milwaukee, Wis. (7.4°F); Concord, N.H. (7°F); and Green Bay, Wis. (7°F). So much for the frozen tundra at Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers.

What’s ahead: The National Weather Service’s long-range forecast for South Florida calls for a warmer and drier winter than average.

• Forecasters expect a weak La Nina to develop in December and affect our weather through March. 
• The phenomenon is typically accompanied by a jet stream that shifts farther north, according to the Weather Service. That drives most winter and spring storms well north of Florida.

This week looks crystal clear and gorgeous with sunny skies and highs in the low 80s in our forecast through Thanksgiving Day. Now that’s something to be thankful for.