Weather & Science

T-Shirt Weather in December Is a Sign of What Winter Has in Store

El Niño and warm oceans will likely blunt winter’s bite, forecasters say.

People row a boat on The Lake in Central Park in Nov. In New York City last week, temperatures rose to almost 60F (16C).

Photographer: Gary Hershorn/Getty Images
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It’s the cusp of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, but in many places from the US to Japan, it feels more like spring — and forecasters say that’s a sign of what to expect over the next couple of months, until a late-season cold snap arrives.

In New York City this weekend, temperatures will soar above 60F (16C). Warmer-than-average weather will also blanket London and Tokyo. And longer-term outlooks show mild conditions lingering for much of North America, Europe and East Asia into January.