That it can get warm again around Christmas wasn’t a big surprise in the past few years. The fact that temperatures are climbing up to 13 degrees in the coming days is an extraordinary development, even in times of climate change, says Josef Haslhofer from the Central Meteorological Institute (ZAMG): “It was a long time ago that it was the last time there were double-digit plus degrees for such a long time in December, “says the meteorologist.
According to the forecast, temperatures in the afternoon will exceed ten degrees from Thursday to Sunday. A strong south-westerly wind, which can bring us wind peaks of up to 50 km / h today and tomorrow, carries mild, moist air from the Atlantic region to Upper Austria. In addition to warm temperatures, this also means thick clouds and rain for Thursday, the snowfall line rises to 2000 meters. In the few places in lower elevations where there is currently still snow, the last remnants should melt as a result. In the mountains, the snow becomes heavier due to the rain, so that the danger of avalanches could increase. Thanks to the groomed slopes and artificial snow, the warmth in the ski areas shouldn’t spoil the already meager bill for the time being.
Wrong spring
The spring-like temperatures in combination with a lot of sunshine could now confuse the flora: Certain plants threaten to sprout prematurely. “Under these conditions it can happen that certain flowers and bushes begin to bloom,” says Haslhofer.
This is confirmed by organic gardener Karl Ploberger. “The first snowdrops have already appeared in my garden, and forsythias can now also open their flowers,” says Ploberger.
In the case of shrubs, however, this is not a cause for concern. “They are used to it and do not suffer any damage if it freezes again.” Because that is to be expected in the middle of next week. Then the temperatures will drop again to a level more appropriate for the time of year.
However, certain flowers require some protection. Because daffodils and other bulbous plants could already be activated by the heat, but it is still too early for them. At the moment, however, many have the right aids in their living rooms. “For many people, the Christmas tree doesn’t stay there much longer than the New Year anyway, and the sticks can then be used to cover the shoots. This keeps the heat away from the ground and stops the plants from growing,” says Ploberger. (vaba)
Source: Nachrichten
