39°
NEW CANAAN, Conn. Although the calendar says its January, Mother Nature seems to have fast-forwarded to early April and that's just fine with Jim Mase.
The 55-year-old runner was basking in the relative warmth of a mild January day Friday in Waveny Park. And he wasn't alone, as other visitors took advantage of temperatures near 50 degrees.
For me, its a good thing. Right now, Im enjoying it, said Mase, who normally would be exercising at the New Canaan YMCA. You get some fresh air here.
Although New Canaanites could be seen wearing jackets and hats, not many scarves or knit hats were on display. Temperatures are expected to be just as warm Saturday, providing another respite from the bone-chilling temperatures earlier in the week.
Lorraine OHalloran, 49, was enjoying a walk with her dog Honey in the park, but she wasn't completely comfortable with the weather being so mild in the dead of winter. Its weird, she said. I think its global warming.
Despite what you might think, the rapid fluctuation in temperatures is likely not the cause of your getting a cold, according to Dr. William Flynn, a pediatrician and long-time New Canaan resident. While some believe a quick change in temperatures can cause a cold, Flynn said people may begin to feel ill because of allergies.
There are not more colds because of temperature changes, Flynn said. A temperature change doesnt promote the passing of viruses from person to person.
The mild spell didnt do much for Gabrielle Ames, 17, who visited Waveny Park to work on a project with friends from New Canaan High School. Its cold enough to be in a coat, but not cold enough to snow. I dont like it. I want winter, she said, particularly if it gives her a chance to ski.
Click here to follow Daily Voice New Canaan and receive free news updates.
