When it comes to cold weather, many people may assume that Pittsburgh would be more frigid than New York due to its location in the Northeast. However, the truth is that New York actually experiences colder temperatures on average than Pittsburgh. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this and compare the two cities in terms of their winter climates.
Temperature Comparison
According to weather data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average annual temperature for New York City during the winter months is 32°F (0°C). On the other hand, Pittsburgh’s average temperature during the same period is 45°F (7°C). This means that New York experiences colder temperatures on average than Pittsburgh.
Factors Affecting Winter Climates
There are several factors that can affect a city’s winter climate, including its geographic location, altitude, and proximity to large bodies of water. In the case of New York City, its location in the Northeast means it is exposed to cold air from the Arctic and Canada, which contributes to its colder temperatures during the winter months. Additionally, New York’s location on Long Island also exposes it to the Atlantic Ocean, which can cause temperatures to drop even further due to ocean currents.
Pittsburgh, on the other hand, is located in southwestern Pennsylvania and is not as exposed to cold air from the Arctic or Canada. Its location near the Appalachian Mountains also helps to buffer it from extreme cold temperatures. Additionally, Pittsburgh’s proximity to Lake Erie can help to mitigate some of the coldest temperatures during the winter months by absorbing heat from the sun.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both New York City and Pittsburgh experience colder temperatures during the winter months, New York actually experiences colder temperatures on average than Pittsburgh. The factors that contribute to a city’s winter climate include its geographic location, altitude, and proximity to large bodies of water, which can affect the severity of cold snaps and snowstorms.
