Unprecedented Cold in the Riviera—Absence of Sunspots

Abstract

IN the second week of March Cannes was visited by falls of snow and degrees of cold far exceeding any of which there is previous record. The preceding part of the winter was of average mildness; the minimum thermometer having fallen below freezing only three times, as follows: December 2, 32°; January 24, 29°; January 26, 31.8°. Not once did it fall so low during February; the average minimum being nearly 44°, and the maximum in shade 56°, and was apparently steadily rising with the approach of spring. The following notes are extracted from my diary:—