In the 120 years since the Met Office began keep weather records for the UK, and they can confirm that December 2010 was the coldest ever (beating previous figures set in 1933), and the coldest individual month since February 1986. 

Statistics

Compared to Devon, which had an average of 0.6C, Cornwall was let off lightly at a comparatively warm 2.4C.  However, both were colder than previous records, at 1.5C and 2.9C respectively.  Snow across the region caused chaos with transport and business links, but did leave scope for some very nice galleries, which you can check out by pressing here.

However, overall 2010 was a very mild year, with reduced rainfall and increased temperatures compared to averages.

Helston

Temperatures fell to around freezing in Helston.  There were a nmore than eight schools closed and Cades Park was shut.  The main Helston to Falmouth through road was also quoted as being a ‘no-go’ zone.  You can check out a gallery here.

January

Despite the rain last week, this month looks set to be a much more ‘normal’ affair.  The forecast from the Met Office is the usual mixture of cold, chilly and wet.  A quick look at this week gives us some context, with Sunday 9th being as low as 3C but for the rest of the week, Helston is lucky enough with a pretty consistent looking 12C.  Unpredictable it may be, but at least I don’t fear for my life every time my car takes a corner. 

Have your say.

Did it seem to you like the coldest December EVER in your town?  Do you think the weather has anything to do with climate change or is it just ‘one of those things’?  Would you be happy if December 2011 were the same?