Charlotte Metro Area Sees Driest Winter on Record

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The North Carolina Climate Office reports that the Charlotte metro area saw its driest November-to-January period on record, despite bouts of winter weather during that time. The dry conditions were due to sustained cold temperatures that led to sublimation, a process in which frozen precipitation turns directly into water vapor without melting.

Why it matters

The unusually dry winter period in the Charlotte region is noteworthy, as the area typically experiences more precipitation during the winter months. The lack of moisture could have implications for the region's water supply and agricultural activities, underscoring the importance of monitoring long-term climate trends.

The details

Much of the snow and ice had little effect on overall moisture levels because of the sustained cold temperatures, which led to sublimation — a process in which frozen precipitation turns directly into water vapor without melting. This resulted in the Charlotte metro area experiencing its driest November-to-January period on record, according to the North Carolina Climate Office.

• The Charlotte metro area experienced its driest November-to-January period on record.
• Today, there is a 20 percent chance of showers after 3pm, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 50 degrees.
• Saturday is expected to be sunny, with a high near 39 degrees and gusty winds up to 38 mph.
• Sunday will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 42 degrees.
• Next week, the forecast calls for warming temperatures, with highs in the 50s and 60s.