Augusta winter snow outlook

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By Jeff Rucker jrucker@nbcaugusta.com

Story Published: Dec 2, 2008 at 10:29 PM EST

Story Updated: Jan 21, 2009 at 11:49 AM EST

AUGUSTA, Ga. - It is time for snow! Literally. Augusta averages 1.4 inches of snow every year, and we are past due. The last time it snowed at least an inch was back in January 2002 when 3 inches was recorded at Augusta, Bush Field, the official weather reporting station for the Augusta area.

Our research of past snows since observations at Bush Field began in 1950 suggests we have never gone more than six consecutive years without at least one inch of snow. That means we are due for a snow this winter. Plan on it!

The official winter temperature forecast from the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center suggests equal chances for above or below average temperatures for the area. Much of the country has a good chance for above average temperatures. But the real story here is that there are no strong atmospheric signals to help forecast temperatures and precipitation past 30 days.

Typically, the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a global weather cycle based on Pacific Ocean temperatures, provides good clues as to long-range and seasonal forecasts. But right now, the ENSO cycle is in a neutral phase, which for most areas around the globe means anything could happen.

Given the lack of strong signals in the atmosphere and the fact that we are overdue for snow here in Augusta, we think it's a good bet to plan on at least one snow day. Get those sleds ready! 

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Wednesday, Dec 3 at 6:34 AM Debbie wrote ...

IT'S ABOUT TIME!! YEAH!!!!

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Wednesday, Dec 3 at 3:11 PM Ramie wrote ...

I'm from CO...bring on the snow, but keep the ice away!!

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Thursday, Dec 4 at 9:09 AM George wrote ...

We Just moved back to Augusta from Ohio to get away from that White Rain. Let them keep it up there, and if you want to see snow go to the mountains when it snows there like this past weekend.

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Thursday, Dec 4 at 12:10 PM linda wrote ...

My husband is a truck driver and I go with him--for 20 years-I have seen enough snow in my lifetime.

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Friday, Dec 5 at 6:11 AM Leslie wrote ...

I agree with George...I lived in W. PA for many years and endured snowfalls totaling 18-24 inches within a 24 hour period. So,if I never see another snowflake, it will be too soon! A trip to the mountains might be in order for those that would like to see that wonderful white stuff.

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Sunday, Dec 7 at 5:19 PM Katie wrote ...

For those of us who lived in the NE, some of us MISS the snow and would welcome it more than what we got in 2002. My child is looking forward to it. BRING IT ON JEFF!

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Sunday, Dec 7 at 6:05 PM Kim wrote ...

I pray for snow. I have lived here all of my life and can count on one hand how many times I have seen it. The children in our area should be able to see it a few times in their life without leaving the area. Pray for snow!!!

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Tuesday, Dec 9 at 9:29 PM Cullen wrote ...

I've grown up here in Thomson and the last time it snowed heartily was about six or seven years ago...bring the snow!

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Friday, Dec 12 at 11:43 AM Jenn wrote ...

We just moved here from Alabama, and I think the last time I saw good snow was the Blizzard of 1993. I would love for my kids to see some snow this year! Bring it on!

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Friday, Jan 2 at 8:11 PM 2Pac wrote ...

we need the snow bring it on baby

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