Baby it's Cold Outside
Record breaking lows set in Midwest
February 18, 2021
Here in south-central Nebraska, we are no strangers to miserably cold winters and dry, cracked skin, but this winter is setting records for just how cold it can get. Right now, it's -23º, give or take, here in Nelson and 23º in Juno, Alaska. I've always said I would never live in Alaska but the last week has me rethinking that decision.
The National Weather Service in Hastings has recorded record-breaking temperatures in the last week. On February 15, a new record low of -24º was recorded. The old record set in 1936 was -18º. On February 16, the low was recorded at -30º, which tied the all-time record low set on Jan. 12, 1912.
Because of the extremely cold temperatures, many in the Midwest are experiencing rolling blackouts. Power plants are unable to keep up with the unprecedented energy demand and are pausing service to keep up. Many "green" energy sources are offline because of the cold temperatures freezing turbine propellers and solar panels covered in snow, causing power outages in much of Texas. Power companies are urging customers to conserve energy in every way possible.
We have roughly 31 days until spring. I, for one, can not wait! This year I plan to do my best not to complain about the heat!
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