Melting Artic Ice Means Colder Midwest Winters
The December 2012 issue of Scientific American includes a story by Dr. Charles Greene of Cornell which contends that record low levels of Arctic Sea ice actually increase the likelihood of cold snaps in the Midwest. According to Dr. Greene, the “weak polar vortex” created by a warmer, more reflective Arctic Circle will allow frigid air to dive into North America with greater frequency.
Many Midwestern grape growers have told Midwest Wine Press that they believe global warming is here to stay. Many also believe that climate change will be a net gain for Midwestern wine grape production, but extreme weather events will continue to require constant vigilance.
For more information on harsh winter weather see: “The Winters of Our Discontent” in Scientific American.