The mild winter has meant less snow and more time outside. But it’s also been hurting some local businesses and could bring on a slew of health problems in the coming weeks.
Effects on your health
Doctors are recommending flu shots through March for those who haven’t been administered recently. Although Kansas and Missouri haven’t seen outbreaks yet, there have been very large upticks of influenza in several states, including Kentucky and Iowa.
Many are blaming the late flu season on the warmer temperatures. And a short winter can also bring an early start to spring allergies.
“If spring is your season, you should probably start thinking about your allergy medication right now,” said Dr. Selina Gierer, an allergist at KU Hospital.
Some forecast record-breaking pollen this spring, already labeling it the "Pollen Vortex."
Effects on local businesses
Meanwhile, sales have been slow for those in the winter equipment business.
Smitty’s Lawn & Garden Equipment in Olathe has already thrown in the towel in regards to selling their winter inventory.
"Right now, what we can do is hope for an early spring … We're trying to be real … We've realized winter is probably not coming this year,” said manager Tom Diltz.
Kansas City averages around 20 inches of snow per year. The area has only received a little more than five inches during this 2015-16 season, making it one of the mildest on record so far.
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Josh Helmuth can be reached at josh.helmuth@kshb.com.
