Climate Summary (made with AI, use with caution)
| Westminster, Massachusetts Climate Summary General Climate Humid continental climate with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Temperature • Average Annual Temperature 46.7°F (8.2°C) • Average Summer Temperature (June-August) 68.7°F (20.4°C) • Average Winter Temperature (December-February) 25.6°F (-3.6°C) • Record High Temperature 102°F (38.9°C) • Record Low Temperature -24°F (-31.1°C) Precipitation • Average Annual Precipitation 44.1 inches (112.0 cm) • Average Snowfall 48.6 inches (123.4 cm) • Wettest Month May (4.6 inches) • Driest Month February (2.4 inches) Sunshine • Average Annual Sunshine 2,220 hours • Sunniest Month July (260 hours) • Cloudiest Month December (150 hours) Other Climate Features • Growing Season 150-180 days • Hardiness Zone 5b • Humid Summers are humid, with average relative humidity above 70% in July and August. • Wind Prevailing wind direction is from the west-southwest. • Tornadoes Rare, but possible. • Thunderstorms Common in the summer months. • Fog Occasional in the fall and winter. Climate Trends • Rising Temperatures Over the past century, average temperatures have increased by about 2°F (1.1°C). • Increased Precipitation Annual precipitation has increased by about 5 inches (12.7 cm) since the early 20th century. • More Extreme Weather Events Heat waves, droughts, and heavy rainfall events are becoming more frequent and intense. Climate Impacts • Agriculture Warmer temperatures and increased precipitation can benefit some crops, but can also lead to pests and diseases. • Water Resources Increased precipitation can lead to flooding, while droughts can impact water supplies. • Infrastructure Extreme weather events can damage roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. • Human Health Heat waves can cause heat-related illnesses, while air pollution from wildfires can impact respiratory health. |
|
| Facts & Historical Information (made with AI, use with caution)
| Natural History • Westminster is home to the Westminster Bog, a 3,000-acre wetland ecosystem renowned for its biodiversity. • The bog is a critical habitat for numerous plant and animal species, including endangered birds like the American bittern and New England cottontail. Science • In 1857, the Westminster Observatory was established as one of the first astronomical observatories in the United States. • The observatory played a significant role in early American astronomy, contributing to the discovery of new celestial objects and the development of astronomical techniques. Personalities Rufus Putnam:A Revolutionary War general and founder of Marietta, Ohio, was born in Westminster in 1738. John Fitch:An inventor and pioneer in steamboat development, resided in Westminster from 1790 to 1792. John Greenleaf Whittier:The renowned American poet spent his childhood in Westminster, where he was inspired by the natural beauty of the region. |
| Tourist Attractions
| 1.Wachusett Mountain State Reservation: A popular destination for hiking, skiing, and scenic views, featuring a summit with panoramic vistas of the surrounding area. 2.Westminster Historical Society and Museum: Preserves the history of Westminster and its role in the American Revolution, showcasing artifacts and exhibits on local culture and heritage. 3.Lake Wampanoag: A tranquil lake offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, surrounded by scenic trails and picnic areas. |
| Nearby Cities:| South Ashburnham, MA | | Gardner, MA | Fitchburg, MA | | Princeton, MA | Ashburnham, MA | | Hubbardston, MA | Leominster, MA | | Templeton, MA | Baldwinville, MA | | Lunenburg, MA | Sterling, MA | | Ashby, MA | Phillipston, MA | | Rutland, MA | Winchendon, MA | | Barre, MA | South Lancaster, MA | | Boston, MA | | South Boston, MA | Worcester, MA | | Providence, RI | Springfield, MA | | Bridgeport, CT | New Haven, CT | | Hartford, CT | Lowell, MA | | Cambridge, MA | Manchester, NH | | Waterbury, CT | |
|