Goodbye to Groundhog Day? Global Warming Means Early Springtime
Written by Communitopia blogger, Erin Bell
Punxsutawney Phil may soon be out of a job thanks to global warming. As average global surface temperatures have steadily risen over the years, the Northern Hemisphere has consistently trended towards an earlier spring. This phenomenon is often called “season creep”, referring to observed changes in the timing of the seasons. We’re seeing earlier springs, longer and drier summers, and shorter, milder winters in many areas across the continental US.
While Pittsburghers may not mind hanging up their winter coats and hats a little early, this climate change-induced shifting of seasons sets off a cascade of consequences across our entire ecosystem. Maybe you’ve noticed that your garden flowers seem to bloom sooner (like the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C.), or that fall foliage occurs later and is less vibrant. These are just a few easily observable examples of how global warming has catalyzed a shift in the seasons. Other natural processes affected by global warming include winter and spring snow cover, ice melt and related water flow, last frost, bird and animal migration, animal breeding, animal and insect life cycles, pollination, and infestations of pests and invasive species.
The disruption of these natural processes can have myriad impacts on agriculture, recreation, and human life in general. Changing pollination patterns may lead to longer or worse allergy seasons; longer growing seasons and drier soil conditions have disrupted agricultural farming; unpredictable or early ice melt affects hydroelectric power and water access; planting zones are shifting for various food crops and plant species; recreational activities like hunting, fishing, and winter sports will be altered; and changing seasonal weather patterns will increase the likelihood of droughts and wildfires. One particular side effect of “season creep” that may hit home for Pennsylvanians in particular is the ever worsening tick population. For nearly two decades, Pennsylvania has consistently reported some of the highest Lyme disease case numbers across the nation. And in years with milder winters, tick prevalence and Lyme disease occurrence has been notably worse. Anecdotally, pet owners and parents across the Commonwealth have shared their frustrations over what seemed to be a particularly bad tick season this past year.
Even though Punxsatawney Phil has an accuracy rate of only 35 to 40 percent when it comes to his seasonal forecasts, he has a way of lifting our spirits during these long winter weeks. Let’s make sure we keep the beloved groundhog employed by advocating for climate action!
