Why is the Long Island Pine Barrens so cold?

Due to the type of sandy and loam soil the region has, clear

skies and light winds are very conducive to an increased

radiational cooling effect when compared to surrounding

sites. The lack of urbanization coupled with a sparse

population within the Pine Barrens further accentuates any

nocturnal radiational cooling effects.

With the ridge of high pressure axis directly overhead

temperatures in the Pine Barrens can be ten degrees colder

than the surrounding areas. Even with a few clouds above

and a light wind temperature differences range between

four to five degrees colder.