Friday, April 6, 2007

Coldest April

From the NWS in Indianapolis...

Coldest April Weather in At Least a Decade Expected
April’s Arctic Assault to Continue Through the Weekend
As a deep upper low pressure intensifies and remains nearly stationary over the northeastern United States, a winter-like pattern has taken hold over Central Indiana. The bitter chill, carried on the back of stiff northwest winds, has sent spring packing, and readings may flirt with records for the next several nights.
High Temperatures Saturday are expected only in the 30s, with overnight lows in the lower 20s. Some outlying areas could possibly fall into the upper teens late tonight and into early Saturday morning.
This bitterly cold weather will damage or kill outdoor plants. Please refer to the latest frost and freeze statements for more detailed information.
Historically speaking, temperatures this cold have not been experienced since April of 1997. The 7th through 10th of that year saw highs in the 30s and 40s, with lows as cold as 18 degrees on April 9, 1997.
Low temperatures the next several nights will be near record values.

Date
Record Low Temperature
Year of Record Low
April 7
19
1982
April 8
18
1972
In addition, the record coldest high temperature for April 7 in Indianapolis will be in jeopardy.
Date
Record Coldest High Temperature
Year of Record
April 7
36
1982
The All-Time Record Low Temperature for the Month of April in the Indianapolis area is 18 degrees, reached on three occasions:
April 9, 1997
April 8, 1972
April 13, 1950