November 2023 Sunshine State Stats
In November 2023, the monthly average high and low temperatures each dropped seven degrees from October. The average high temperature of 76 degrees, versus 83 in October, matched the decline of the average low temperature, which fell to 58 degrees versus 65 degrees last month. Rainfall reported from Leesburg International Airport (KLEE) increased by 1.93 inches over the October total of 1.41 inches, topping off at 3.34 inches for the month.
The 2023 Hurricane Season has concluded, and with only Hurricane Idalia striking Florida directly, most Floridians can be grateful. Unfortunately, for parts of northern Florida, the restoration effort will continue for some time ahead.
Measurable precipitation occurred on 8 of 30 days, with the rainiest day occurring on November 16, when 2.29 inches fell—that is 69% of the monthly total! The monthly precipitation total of 3.34 inches is nearly one-half inch more (.46 inch) than that which fell during the same month last year at Leesburg International Airport (KLEE). There were no reported cloud-to-ground lightning strikes within the 15-mile radius of Leesburg International Airport in November.
The seasonal cooling of temperatures was evident during the month, as 15 days experienced highs in the 70s, 11 days reached the 80s, three days were held to highs in the 60s, and one day, November 28, recorded its high as 57 degrees. The lowest daily recorded temperature (data from the Leesburg KLEE weather station) in November was 42 degrees, achieved on the last two days of the month, November 29 and 30.
Many members in SECO Energy’s service area likely considered adjusting their thermostats to combat the cold snap of late November. SECO reminds all that HVAC is the largest energy user in Central Florida homes, accounting for an average of 35 to 40% of kWh usage. As evenings become cooler, and heating becomes the primary consumer of HVAC energy demands, it may be a good time to consider ways to minimize the impact of increased heating costs. Our latest issue of SECO News (December) features an article on “Winter Energy Efficiency,” by SECO District 8 Board Trustee Bill James. Take a moment to review some timely tips here.
November forecast from The Old Farmer’s Almanac:
The weather outlook for December 2023 indicates a probability of scattered showers and chilly temperatures in the early part of December, followed by mostly sunny and cool weather in the second week, concluding with two weeks of contrasting characteristics: rainy and mild, then rainy and cold. Expect near-average temperatures of 66 degrees (about 1 degree higher than average), and precipitation that will total 3.5 inches, which is 1 inch above average for December.
Online Energy-Efficiency Tools
Log into SmartHub to view past bills and consumption charts to check historical usage. If your usage is high, SECO offers several energy-efficiency tools to help you identify energy wasters. Take the Home Energy Assessment to receive a detailed email tailored to your home’s features and lifestyle. The energy-saving advice will provide low-cost ways to decrease your usage – and your electric bill.
To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator.