WINTER MAINTENANCE
NAVIGATINGUNPREDICTABLE CLIMATES
A trend Adam Brindle, MD of the Grounds Care Group discusses winter gritting in the era of climate change.
Over the past 12 months our planet has borne witness to a relentless barrage of catastrophic weather events that have left a trail of destruction, loss, and displacement across the globe. From raging wildfires to devastating floods, extreme heatwaves, and powerful hurricanes, these events serve as a stark reminder of the escalating climate crisis and its undeniable impact on our environment, communities and businesses.
Researchers predict that these extreme weather events will become the new norm as the UK will experience more frequent and pronounced fluctuations in temperature due to climate change. Winters, once a predictable period of cold, are now poised to become more intense, with sudden plunges in temperature that may catch businesses off guard.
One of the challenges of these dramatic climate events is the way in which the modern FM can adapt to delivering essential services like winter maintenance and gritting.
Changing weather patterns and the
art of prediction The changing climate has ushered in a new era of uncertainty when it comes to predicting weather patterns. Traditionally, the UK has enjoyed a relatively stable climate, allowing businesses to anticipate and prepare for winter conditions. However, the influence of climate change has introduced an element of chaos into this equilibrium.
In the past, meteorologists could rely on historical data and established weather patterns to make reasonably accurate forecasts. However, the rising temperatures and
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shifting climate dynamics have thrown these patterns into disarray. This climate unpredictability challenges the traditional forecasting methods relied upon by winter gritting operations.
“The changing climate has ushered in a new era of uncertainty when it comes to predicting weather patterns."
There is a fine line between knowing when to grit, and when not to, and getting it wrong could be a costly exercise. Businesses can now rely on very accurate regional forecasting services that can tell you when a bad frost is likely. Rain and snow can also have a big impact on the effect of gritting: better weather awareness and timing gritting around when precipitation is expected is hugely important.
Applying the science will make sure that there are no nasty surprises and will also prevent you from wasting man-hours and grit supplies when the weather is bad. This focus on reducing waste is also why the leading
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