Why Do They Call It Indian Summer ((install)) < 95% Free >

In recent years, some meteorologists have suggested alternatives like "Second Summer" or "Old Wives' Summer." However, "Indian Summer" remains the common vernacular. As with many historical phrases, using it today is best done with an awareness of its complicated past rather than a celebration of it. Regardless of what you call it, the cause is purely physical. As autumn progresses, the jet stream—a river of high-speed wind in the atmosphere—begins to dip southward, bringing cold Arctic air. However, occasionally the jet stream develops a large "ridge" or bulge. This ridge allows warm, dry air from the south (the subtropics) to push far north for a few days.

Then, suddenly, the mercury rises.

Whether you see it as a beautiful gift of nature or a linguistic relic of the past, one thing is certain: When that warm, amber light filters through the November trees, don't waste it. Go for a walk. Open the windows. Enjoy the final encore of the growing season. why do they call it indian summer