Let the Frightful Weather Begin [Courtesy Rovers Magazine January 2011]
By Jeffrey Aronson
The Old Farmer’s Almanac, published in Dublin, NH, predicts that the winter of 2011 “will be milder than normal across the north but colder across the south...Precipitation will be below normal, with near- to below-normal snowfall. The snowiest periods will be in late December, mid- and late January, mid- to late February, and early March.”
The Farmer’s Almanac, published in Lewiston, ME, predicts that “Old Man Winter will exhibit a ‘split personality.’ The eastern third of the country, (New England down to Florida and as far west as the lower Ohio River and Mississippi River Valley), will experience colder-than-normal winter temperatures. Across New England winter will feature much colder-than-normal temperatures. Meanwhile, for the Western States, milder-than-normal winter temperatures are expected. They will spread from the Pacific Coast inland as far as the Rockies and the western Great Plains. Across the nation’s midsection, near-normal winter temperatures are anticipated.” As for precipitation, we’re likely to see more rain and snow, particularly in the south, the northern and central plains, and then along the Atlantic coast.
Winter driving often brings out the worst in drivers; even in New England, the first touch of snow means that tow truck operators and body shop owners find themselves in high demand. Drivers suffer from a collective amnesia about the physics of driving on ice and snow, particularly in the realm of braking. Land Rover enthusiasts expend a lot of energy watching out for the sins of others on the roads.
It’s off road that Land Rovers excel in snowy winter conditions, and winter snow cover – not salt – is particularly gentle on our vehicles. Whether you attend a major winter weather events, like the Maine Winter Romp (February 18-21, 2011), or smaller club or “meet ups” like those posted on the Rovers North Forum, you’re certain to have an entertaining time. Rovers North has created a calendar [web address?] on its website to help enthusiasts know of events, large and small, in their regions. If you’re planning an event and want to promote it there, just let us know.
You can blast through drifts [always check what’s on the other side first], pirouette across frozen ponds [checking for ice thickness before starting out] or trek through forest paths, even practice winching on icy hill climbs, river banks, or in slushy bogs. Other than packing some snow around your brakes and suspension bits, you’re unlikely to do much damage to your Rover, either. Snow might stop your car cold because of its depth or consistency, but it doesn’t attack undercarriage pieces like mud and water.
Winter driving, as seen in these photos from the 2009 Maine Winter Romp, is too much fun to miss. Step away from the fireplace and join your fellow enthusiasts in the woods and fields this winter.
[Copyright Rovers North and Jeffrey Aronson 2011]
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