The average temperature for the winter is on a knife-edge regarding
whether
it's cooler or milder than the winter of 1978/79, it'll all become clear
in the morning so to speak.
One thing is for sure, if we allow for an approximate 0.7ºC rise in global
temperatures since then, this has been the coldest departure from average
in Winter in Wishaw since the 19th century. Even 1962/63 does not compare
when this statistic is allowed. IE, it's return period - when taking into
account adjusted averages, is higher than 1 in 100. Outstanding indeed.
Even if it turns out to be a fraction of a degree warmer than the winter
of 1978/79 by tomorrow, if not the coldest, this will definitely rank as
the most surprising winter of my, or anyone else's life around here, so
great is the anomally.
Alex.

Nice too hear in days of GW Alex!

This winter though amazing for some parts of the UK, would not rank in my
top 5 over the last 50 years and would struggle to make my top 10!!
NO comparison whatsoever with 1979 here in North Staffs, not even close I'm
afraid, but not a bad winter compared to what we've had in the last 10 years
or so.

Ironic really on the last day of the Winter it's ended how it's been for at
least half of it, cold, dull & damp

Graham