Long-Term Changes to the Frost-Free Season as a Function of Climatic Continentality

Department

Geography and Geology

Authors

Ian Blaylock, Western Kentucky UniversityFollow

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

The beginning, end, and length of the annual frost-free season vary considerably both spatially and temporally. The continentality of the climate of a given area has a close connection with the magnitude and nature of these variations. Long term changes in the frost-free season can be divided into three distinct phases: a lengthening of the frost-free season in the early 20^th century, a shortening in the mid-20^th century, and a renewed, intensified lengthening from 1970 to today. While oceanic and ultraoceanic climates experience decreased incidence of frosts relative to their continental counterparts, analysis has shown that overall 20^th century trend towards an earlier onset, later end, and longer length of the frost-free season has been much more pronounced in regions that experience these climates.

Advisor(s) or Committee Chair

Dr. Stuart Foster

Disciplines

Environmental Sciences | Meteorology | Oceanography | Other Oceanography and Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology

Recommended Citation

Blaylock, Ian, "Long-Term Changes to the Frost-Free Season as a Function of Climatic Continentality" (2012). Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects. Paper 373.
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/stu_hon_theses/373