If it's now mid-February and Durham, NC, still hasn't seen any snow, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
1. **Weather Variability:** Winter weather can be highly variable, and snowfall predictions are subject to change based on shifting weather patterns. The absence of snow by mid-February, even with forecasts suggesting a higher likelihood due to conditions like a strong El Niño, highlights the unpredictable nature of weather.
2. **Late Season Snow:** It's not uncommon for regions that experience mild winters to receive snow later in the season. While the most likely periods for snow in Durham based on historical El Niño patterns have been identified as late January through February【6†source】【7†source】, snow can still occur in March. In fact, late season snowfalls have happened in the past, and the weather forecast from The Old Farmer's Almanac for March includes periods of rain and mild weather, which could potentially turn to snow if temperatures drop enough【7†source】.
3. **Climate Trends:** The broader trend of climate variability can also impact seasonal weather patterns, making certain weather events more or less likely. For example, warmer overall temperatures may reduce the frequency and intensity of snowfall in areas that historically received more.
4. **Staying Informed:** It's important to stay updated with local weather forecasts as they can provide the most current information. Meteorologists continually update forecasts based on the latest data, and a snow event could still be forecasted in the coming weeks.
5. **Enjoying Winter Regardless:** Whether or not snow falls, there are many ways to enjoy the winter season, from outdoor activities suited to cold weather to cozy indoor pursuits.
In summary, the lack of snow by mid-February, despite forecasts suggesting otherwise, is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather. It's always possible for conditions to change, and staying informed through local weather services is the best way to know what to expect as the season progresses.