Heat Wave Time!
A heat wave in the U.K! Surely this is what is wanted every summer?
Are we ever happy with our weather?
When it rains we look for a dry spell..... when it`s dry for any length of time we look for some rain.
When it`s cold we long for some heat and yes.....when it`s hot we crave something cooler!
Working with a heatwave.
Even when we have a heatwave we are not very good at dealing with it. No afternoon siestas for the Brits! It seems that whilst the sun is out, not a moment should be missed, even if it means overdosing on the strong sun rays which burn the skin and dehydrates the body.
Bodies of all shapes and sizes will worship the yellow ball in the sky. Work will be missed, large quantities of liquids will be consumed, outdoor eating will be the norm, and endless queues will slowly make their way to anywhere with a stretch of water.
WHY?
Is it because in the U.K. weather is unpredictable at the best of times so no one can depend on a settled period of weather on a regular basis each year?
Many European countries have hot summers, fairly cold winters and a moderate rainfall each year.
This predictable cycle allows many things to be planned in advance
Grape vines.
Due to the sunshine and rainfall, abundant crops can be planted and harvested each year. Obvious examples of this are the growing of fruits, vines and flowers for commercial purposes.
It is also an ideal climate for agriculture. Beef and dairy cattle, sheep and cereals provide a profitable industry.
The pleasant predictable climate also attracts a thriving tourist market and an enviable calm relaxed lifestyle.
Ski-ing country.
Countries which have warm summers but colder winters where heavy snowfalls are expected each year, also capitalize on the weather. Winter sports along with spectacular scenery contributes to a thriving working economy.
Climate Change.
However, with climate change making its presence felt, much of this predictable weather pattern is changing.
The overall message is that global temperatures are rising, therefore in many places temperatures will become unbearably hot. This will also affect winter months.
Conversely, evidence points to climate change also causing many winters to become colder with frosts and snow in places previously having had mild temperatures.
Flooding, storms and drought are also becoming more frequent.
These changes are having a serious impact in many countries.
Some fair weather crops are being affected by unexpected frosts whereas in other areas snowfalls are decreasing.
Too much rain can have a negative impact when not expected as can long periods of drought.
Coastal Erosion.
Sea levels are rising and in some areas houses have already been put at risk with an eroding coastline.
Depending on how regularly this change in weather pattern is happening, and its effects on the countries and their economies, it could completely alter what was an expected way of life and income.
Imagine if the fruit and wine industries of France and Spain were badly affected by the climatic change of more severe winters and increased flooding? It would seriously impact on their economy.
In contrast, if snow falls are not heavy enough in Austria and Switzerland, it could severely affect their winter sports and tourist trade.
Lifestyles.
Predictable seasonal weather affects lifestyles too.
In countries with hot weather, many things are done in the early morning to avoid the heat of the sun as the day progresses.
Schools start early, shops stay open later having had a long break in the middle of the day to avoid the highest temperatures.
Food is eaten out of doors regularly and outdoor pursuits are a way of life.
In contrast, cold winters require good heating systems, heartier food, warmer clothing and lots of preparation for travelling difficulties with roads becoming treacherous with snow.
Compare these examples to the U.K.
Predicting seasonal weather is not possible. Some summers are very warm and pleasant, others are wet and depressing.
Winters can be crisp with snow, or increasingly can be very mild with no frosts.
Rain is never far away and can carry on for days, Thankfully, droughts to date are not common.
This unpredictability also has an impact on lifestyles.
Because no one knows whether summer is going to be sunny, the demand to visit another country is huge.
Going abroad to holiday has an expectation of guaranteed sunshine and the lifestyle that goes with it.
When it rains a lot, everyone complains about the fact and proceed to make holiday plans!
Pre arranged outdoor activities such as BBQs and sports are very much affected by weather, as difficult to plan.
Crops can be affected by lack of sun, too much rain, frosts or droughts, all of which can be experienced in the U.K.
Coming to terms.
Climate change is also being felt here. Storms are becoming more frequent and flooding more dramatic.
However, in the grand scale of things, the U.K. for all it`s unpredictability, has a more settled , less extreme climate than many countries.
Due to many technological advances and inventions, ways have been found round many climatic problems.
As overall temperatures appear to be milder, fruit and cut flowers which were difficult to cultivate before, can be grown with the help of covered tunnels which protect and encourage healthy growth.
Even fruit trees and vines can now be nurtured.
More and more activities are being taken out of doors largely down to the increase of outdoor equipment such as garden furniture and hot tubs.
Weather forecasts are now very accurate, so planning ahead can be much easier.
In balance, although we complain about our weather, when compared with other countries, particularly against climate change, the U.K. is holding it`s own.
Surprisingly, the strength is the predictability of the unpredictability which may turn out to be the trump card and the envy of many!
Meanwhile...let`s enjoy the heatwave with a bit of common sense!
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