2010 starts warmer and wetter than last January

Weather January 2010

Jack Grum -- Casual Living, 1/1/2010 12:00:00 AM

Last January was the nation’s coldest in five years and the fourth coldest in more than 17 years. Record cold temperatures during the second week of the month in the Northeast and North Central regions drove triple-digit gains for cold weather items like electric blankets, auto batteries and propane.

Last year also was the fifth snowiest January in more than 17 years, which hurt store traffic as consumers chose to stay home rather than brave the elements. Warmer temperatures out West were beneficial for outdoor living categories.

National January Temperature Index

January 2010 will trend much warmer than last year for 77% of the country. Many locations in the Midwest and Northeast will be more than 10°F to 15°F warmer than last year for the month.

Precipitation will also trend upward, making this the wettest January in five years, however there will be slightly less snowfall than last year. Warmer temperatures will translate to a higher demand for non-seasonal items. Early spring categories will do better across the South, however increases in precipitation may keep store traffic down.

Weather Trends International
Jack Grum, vice president
610-807-3586
jgrum@wxtrends.com
www.wxtrends.com