Common arguments

Does cold weather disprove global warming?

People experience weather locally and personally, so a cold spell feels like direct evidence. Here is why that does not hold up.

Why it sounds plausible

People experience weather locally and personally, so a cold spell feels like direct evidence.

The simple answer

Weather is short term. Climate is the long-term pattern.

The fuller explanation

A cold week, month or winter in one region does not cancel a global, long-term trend. Global warming does not mean every day everywhere gets warmer. It means the global yearly average is rising, and it is.

Bottom line

Local cold weather does not disprove global warming.

Quick answers

Frequently asked

Local cold weather does not disprove global warming.

Weather is short term. Climate is the long-term pattern.