40-degree temperatures in January, and barely any snow days? There is no doubt that this winter has been unprecedented in its high temperatures and lack of precipitation. Whether you enjoy this weather or not, it certainly causes one to think about the changes that our climate is experiencing. 

Personally, I’ve enjoyed the warmer temperatures. But, I am not sure I am ok with a winter without the appearance of snow. We all have experienced the “January Thaw”, which historically occurs in January, with one or two days above 32 degrees. But, four or five days may be a reason for concern. While this specific change may simply be caused by a warm front, the overall changes that it signifies are more pressing. 

In Michigan, the average temperatures have increased by about 2 to 3 degrees state wide over the past few years. This seemingly small change is not without repercussions. Heat waves, and extreme precipitation are just some of the side effects of this change, while flooding and air pollution can also occur. 

So why is it that it takes such a drastic change for us to realize what we are doing to our climate? And how have we let it come this far? Climate change has certainly taken the front page of many news outlets for the past few years. But, what are we really doing to combat it? 

If we continue with this runaway greenhouse effect, although not tomorrow, but in enough time, we will see the Earth we know drastically change. 

While it stands that most emissions and changes made to combat climate change need to come from large corporations and industries, we should all let these warm days cause us to think: How can I help to protect weather patterns, and become more sustainable?