Oh I agree, right now we are completely limited, there is potential, whether it is realized is still unknown. I would however like to move out of phase 7 to improve our chances.
If we stall out in phase 7 of the MJO, it will remain warm and snowless. Sure there is always a chance of something sneaking in but right now its not looking too optimistic.
Hi, I'm the SWO at DTW and there is nothing wrong with our thermometer. Also DTW isn't in an urban heat island either, its actually on the edge of the metro, south and west of here is mostly farms, open land or woods.
I mean December is obviously doing all the heavy lifting on these numbers. It was still a significant cold snap that we went through, to say otherwise is foolish.
It will be if we don't get some snow/cold in February. December was one of the warmest on records and even with the cold snap this month most places are just barely below normal and we are looking at warmth coming in next week that should take away any negative departures.