Local temperature variations in the nottingham district

Abstract

AbstractThe unusual temperature readings at Garforth and Wokingham, and later those of Mr. E. L. Hawke at Rickmansworth, suggested an examination of local records near Nottingham. The author has found that considerable variations occur in the Nottingham district, though the topography offers no unusual features. An area of relatively high land, with irregular spurs, stretches north‐north‐east from Nottingham Castle. The monthly values of three stations for the nine years 1928‐1936, and those of five other stations for other periods, are analysed. It is found that local differences of 10°F. in the minima may occur, and the mean monthly minima may differ by over 4°F. Average differences are tabulated. A detailed daily analysis of four stations is made for the two years April, 1935, to March, 1937. It shows that variations tend to be greatest with winds from north‐west through north to east, and least with south to west winds. Although fine weather, a rising barometer and a low humidity favour large variations, it appears that conditions producing low minima do not always give appreciable differences. Rainy, windy conditions bring the differences to a minimum. Differences of 6°F. in the maxima may occur on certain warm sunny days in summer, and variations of 8°F. in foggy conditions. Topographical features give Attenborough the most “continental” temperatures. The importance of uniformity in the hours of setting the thermometers is demonstrated, and positions are indicated where additional screens might give useful data.