Optimal climates vary based on individual preferences. Some prioritize abundant sunshine and warmth, while others favor mild temperatures and distinct seasons. Factors such as humidity, precipitation, and the frequency of extreme weather events also play a significant role in determining a location’s desirability. For example, a retiree seeking year-round outdoor activities might prioritize a location with low humidity and mild winters, whereas a gardener might prefer a region with consistent rainfall and a long growing season.
Climate plays a crucial role in quality of life, influencing decisions related to housing, recreation, and even career paths. Historically, settlements have flourished in areas with favorable climates, contributing to economic growth and cultural development. Understanding regional climate variations enables informed choices regarding relocation, travel, and investment. These variations can significantly impact agricultural practices, energy consumption, and public health infrastructure.
This exploration will delve into specific geographic areas known for their desirable climate conditions, analyzing factors that contribute to their popularity and addressing potential challenges. It will also examine the impact of climate change on these regions and discuss strategies for adapting to evolving weather patterns.
1. Sunshine Hours
Annual sunshine hours significantly influence a region’s perceived climate desirability. This metric directly impacts temperatures, growing seasons, and overall mood, making it a critical factor in determining “best states for weather” discussions.
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Psychological Impact
Sunlight exposure triggers serotonin production, influencing mood and overall well-being. Regions with abundant sunshine often report higher rates of life satisfaction, potentially correlating pleasant weather with positive mental health outcomes. Conversely, limited sunshine can contribute to seasonal affective disorder, highlighting the importance of this factor for individuals susceptible to such conditions.
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Agricultural Productivity
Sunshine duration directly affects crop yields. States with longer growing seasons facilitated by ample sunlight support diverse agricultural practices, contributing to local economies and food security. Comparing Arizona’s citrus production with Vermont’s maple syrup industry illustrates how sunshine hours shape regional agricultural specialties.
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Tourism and Recreation
Destinations known for sunny weather often attract tourists seeking outdoor activities. Florida’s beaches and California’s deserts exemplify how abundant sunshine drives tourism, impacting local economies and shaping community development. States prioritizing outdoor recreation often highlight sunshine hours in promotional materials.
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Energy Consumption
Regions with more sunshine potentially reduce reliance on artificial lighting and heating. This factor contributes to sustainable energy practices and can influence long-term infrastructure planning. Comparing energy consumption patterns in sunny states like Nevada with those in less sunny regions can reveal the impact of sunshine on energy demands.
Analyzing sunshine hours in conjunction with other climate factors provides a more nuanced understanding of regional desirability. While abundant sunshine offers numerous benefits, balancing it with factors like temperature and humidity ultimately determines a location’s suitability for specific needs and preferences.
2. Temperature Ranges
Temperature ranges represent a critical factor in evaluating climate suitability. Extreme temperatures can impact habitability, economic activities, and overall quality of life. Understanding average temperatures, seasonal variations, and diurnal swings provides valuable insights into a region’s climate profile.
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Human Comfort and Health
Moderate temperatures contribute significantly to human comfort and well-being. Extreme heat or cold can exacerbate existing health conditions and pose risks of heatstroke or hypothermia. Regions with consistently moderate temperatures, like coastal California, often attract individuals seeking comfortable living conditions. Conversely, areas with extreme temperature fluctuations require specific adaptations for human habitation and infrastructure.
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Economic Implications
Temperature extremes can disrupt industries such as agriculture, tourism, and construction. Heat waves can damage crops and reduce worker productivity, while extreme cold can freeze infrastructure and impede transportation. Consider how temperature variations impact Florida’s tourism industry versus Alaska’s oil and gas sector, demonstrating the economic implications of different temperature ranges.
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Ecosystem Impact
Temperature ranges significantly influence ecosystems. Flora and fauna adapt to specific temperature conditions, and drastic shifts can disrupt biodiversity. The coral bleaching phenomenon in warmer ocean waters exemplifies the vulnerability of ecosystems to temperature changes. Analyzing temperature ranges within specific ecosystems, such as the Sonoran Desert compared to the Pacific Northwest rainforest, highlights the role of temperature in shaping biodiversity.
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Energy Consumption
Heating and cooling demands fluctuate significantly based on temperature ranges. Regions with extreme temperatures often experience higher energy consumption for climate control, impacting energy costs and environmental sustainability. Comparing energy usage in consistently mild climates like Hawaii with areas experiencing large temperature swings, such as North Dakota, reveals the influence of temperature on energy demands.
Analyzing temperature ranges provides crucial information for evaluating locations based on climate preferences. Balancing average temperatures with other factors like humidity and precipitation offers a comprehensive understanding of regional climate suitability and informs decisions related to relocation, travel, and long-term planning. Examining specific examples, such as comparing the climates of San Diego and Minneapolis, further illustrates the influence of temperature ranges on overall quality of life.
3. Humidity Levels
Humidity, the amount of water vapor in the air, plays a significant role in perceived temperature and overall comfort. High humidity can exacerbate heat, making warm temperatures feel oppressive, while low humidity can intensify cold. Therefore, humidity levels are a crucial factor in determining climate suitability and contribute significantly to “best states for weather” assessments.
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Perceived Temperature
High humidity hinders the body’s natural cooling process through perspiration, as the air’s saturation limits evaporation. This leads to a higher perceived temperature than the actual air temperature, making even moderately warm days feel uncomfortable. Conversely, low humidity allows for rapid evaporation, potentially making cold temperatures feel even colder. Comparing a humid summer day in Florida with a dry summer day in Arizona illustrates this effect.
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Respiratory Health
High humidity can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Mold and dust mites thrive in humid environments, triggering allergic reactions and respiratory distress. Conversely, extremely dry air can irritate nasal passages and exacerbate respiratory infections. Individuals with respiratory sensitivities often consider humidity levels when evaluating climate suitability.
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Infrastructure and Material Degradation
High humidity accelerates the deterioration of building materials, promoting rust, rot, and mold growth. This increases maintenance costs and necessitates specific construction practices in humid climates. Coastal regions often face greater challenges with infrastructure degradation due to higher humidity levels compared to inland areas.
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Agricultural Practices
Humidity levels impact agricultural practices and crop yields. Certain crops thrive in humid environments, while others require drier conditions. High humidity can promote fungal diseases in some plants, while low humidity can stress crops susceptible to drought. Comparing agricultural practices in humid regions like the southeastern United States with those in arid regions like California’s Central Valley highlights the influence of humidity on agriculture.
Understanding humidity levels in conjunction with temperature ranges provides a comprehensive understanding of a region’s climate. While personal preferences for humidity vary, recognizing its impact on comfort, health, infrastructure, and agriculture contributes significantly to informed decisions regarding location and lifestyle choices. Considering locations with consistently moderate humidity, like coastal California or parts of the Pacific Northwest, often balances comfort with other desirable climate factors.
4. Precipitation Patterns
Precipitation, encompassing rain, snow, sleet, and hail, significantly influences a region’s climate and overall suitability. Frequency, intensity, and seasonal distribution of precipitation shape landscapes, impact water resources, and affect daily life. Understanding precipitation patterns is crucial for evaluating “best states for weather” designations.
Consistent, moderate rainfall supports lush vegetation, replenishes water supplies, and contributes to moderate temperatures. Regions with predictable rainfall patterns, such as the Pacific Northwest, often experience temperate climates and thriving ecosystems. However, excessive rainfall can lead to flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage. Conversely, regions with limited rainfall, like the desert Southwest, face challenges with water scarcity and require specific adaptations for agriculture and daily living. The contrasting precipitation patterns of Seattle and Phoenix illustrate these distinct challenges and benefits.
Snowfall contributes to winter recreation opportunities and replenishes mountain snowpack, which serves as a crucial water source for many regions. States like Colorado and Utah rely heavily on snowpack for water resources, influencing agricultural practices and urban development. However, heavy snowfall can disrupt transportation, damage infrastructure, and pose safety risks. Analyzing the impact of snowfall on Denver’s economy compared to Miami’s reliance on rainfall for water resources highlights the practical significance of understanding diverse precipitation patterns.
The frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation events, such as heavy downpours and blizzards, also influence climate suitability. These events can cause significant damage, disrupt daily life, and pose threats to human safety. Coastal regions are particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, while inland areas can experience severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Evaluating the frequency and intensity of these events is crucial for assessing risk and informing preparedness strategies. Comparing the hurricane risks of Florida with the tornado risks of Oklahoma provides a practical illustration of this importance.
Understanding precipitation patterns, including type, frequency, intensity, and seasonal distribution, provides valuable insights into a region’s climate profile. This understanding, combined with an analysis of temperature, humidity, and other climate factors, enables informed decisions regarding location choices based on individual needs and preferences. Recognizing the dynamic nature of precipitation and its impact on ecosystems, infrastructure, and human activities is essential for adapting to changing climate conditions and ensuring sustainable resource management.
5. Air Quality Index
The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures pollutants in the air, directly impacting respiratory health and overall well-being. Locations with consistently high AQI values experience increased rates of respiratory illnesses, reduced visibility, and diminished quality of life. Therefore, AQI constitutes a critical component in “best states for weather” evaluations, influencing decisions regarding relocation, travel, and long-term health considerations. States known for clean air, such as Hawaii and Maine, often rank highly in climate desirability due to the positive health outcomes associated with good air quality. Conversely, areas experiencing industrial pollution or frequent wildfires, like parts of California or industrial regions in the Midwest, may experience lower AQI values, impacting public health and reducing overall climate appeal.
Several factors contribute to variations in AQI. Industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, wildfires, and geographical features like valleys can trap pollutants, leading to elevated AQI levels. Coastal areas often benefit from ocean breezes that disperse pollutants, contributing to better air quality. Understanding these contributing factors allows for informed decisions about choosing locations with optimal air quality. Comparing Los Angeles, which frequently experiences high AQI values due to traffic and industrial activity, with cities like Denver, situated at higher elevations with better air circulation, illustrates the impact of these factors.
Considering AQI alongside traditional climate factors provides a comprehensive understanding of regional suitability. Prioritizing locations with consistently low AQI values safeguards respiratory health, enhances overall well-being, and contributes to long-term quality of life. Integrating AQI data into climate assessments ensures a more holistic evaluation, acknowledging the vital connection between clean air and a desirable climate. This understanding empowers individuals to make informed choices that prioritize both immediate comfort and long-term health outcomes, underscoring the practical significance of AQI in evaluating “best states for weather.”
6. Severe Weather Risks
Severe weather risks, including hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, and wildfires, significantly impact a region’s desirability and play a crucial role in “best states for weather” assessments. Frequency, intensity, and potential for devastation associated with these events influence decisions regarding relocation, property investment, and overall safety. Regions prone to frequent or intense severe weather events, such as coastal areas susceptible to hurricanes or the Midwest’s “Tornado Alley,” require comprehensive preparedness strategies and may experience disruptions to daily life and economic activities. Conversely, locations with lower risks of severe weather, like parts of the interior West or the Pacific Northwest, offer greater stability and potentially lower insurance costs, enhancing their attractiveness for individuals seeking a secure and predictable environment.
Understanding the specific severe weather risks associated with different geographic locations provides crucial insights for evaluating climate suitability. Coastal regions face different risks compared to inland areas, requiring distinct preparedness measures and infrastructure adaptations. For instance, building codes in hurricane-prone areas mandate specific construction techniques to withstand high winds and storm surges, while communities in wildfire-prone regions emphasize defensible space and evacuation planning. Analyzing the frequency and intensity of historical severe weather events, combined with future climate projections, informs risk assessments and enables proactive mitigation strategies. Comparing the hurricane preparedness measures of Florida with the wildfire mitigation strategies employed in California demonstrates the practical application of this understanding.
Integrating severe weather risk assessments into “best states for weather” evaluations provides a comprehensive perspective that extends beyond average temperatures and rainfall patterns. While a region might offer desirable average weather conditions, the potential for catastrophic events necessitates careful consideration. Balancing the benefits of a pleasant climate with the potential risks of severe weather empowers individuals to make informed decisions that prioritize safety, security, and long-term well-being. This comprehensive approach ensures a more nuanced understanding of regional climate suitability and contributes to informed choices regarding location and lifestyle.
7. Seasonal Variations
Seasonal variations, encompassing temperature fluctuations, precipitation patterns, and daylight hours, significantly influence a region’s climate profile and contribute substantially to “best states for weather” discussions. Distinct seasons offer diverse experiences, impacting recreational opportunities, agricultural practices, and overall quality of life. Regions with moderate seasonal variations, such as the Mediterranean climates of coastal California, often appeal to individuals seeking comfortable year-round conditions. Conversely, locations experiencing dramatic seasonal shifts, like the Upper Midwest, require specific adaptations for infrastructure, lifestyle, and economic activities. Understanding the cause and effect of these variations provides crucial insights for evaluating regional climate suitability.
The Earth’s axial tilt and orbit around the sun drive seasonal changes, causing variations in solar radiation received at different latitudes throughout the year. These variations dictate temperature patterns, influencing growing seasons, snowfall accumulation, and the prevalence of specific weather phenomena. For example, the long daylight hours and intense solar radiation of summer months contribute to higher temperatures and increased evaporation rates, while the shorter days and lower solar angle of winter result in cooler temperatures and potential snowfall. Comparing the four distinct seasons of New England with the relatively consistent temperatures of Southern California illustrates the impact of these variations on daily life, recreational activities, and regional economies.
The practical significance of understanding seasonal variations extends beyond personal preferences for specific weather conditions. Agricultural practices, tourism patterns, and energy consumption are all influenced by seasonal changes. Farmers adapt planting and harvesting schedules to align with regional growing seasons, while tourism industries capitalize on specific seasonal attractions, such as fall foliage displays in New England or winter skiing in the Rocky Mountains. Energy demands fluctuate throughout the year, with increased heating requirements during winter and greater cooling needs in summer. Integrating seasonal variations into “best states for weather” assessments provides a comprehensive understanding of a region’s climate profile, empowering informed decisions regarding location choices, resource management, and adaptation to climate change impacts.
8. Elevation Impact
Elevation significantly influences local climate conditions, playing a crucial role in determining “best states for weather” designations. Atmospheric pressure, temperature, and precipitation patterns vary dramatically with altitude, creating distinct microclimates within relatively small geographic areas. Understanding these elevational influences is essential for evaluating climate suitability and informing decisions regarding location, lifestyle, and resource management.
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Temperature Gradients
Temperature generally decreases with increasing elevation, creating distinct temperature zones within mountainous regions. This phenomenon, known as the lapse rate, results in cooler temperatures at higher altitudes, influencing vegetation patterns, snowpack accumulation, and human comfort levels. Comparing the climate of Denver, situated at a mile high, with the warmer temperatures of lower-lying areas in eastern Colorado demonstrates the impact of elevation on temperature.
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Precipitation Patterns
Mountains influence precipitation patterns by forcing air upwards, causing it to cool and condense, leading to increased rainfall or snowfall on windward slopes. This orographic effect creates rain shadows on the leeward sides of mountains, resulting in drier conditions. The contrasting precipitation patterns of the Cascade Range in Washington state, with abundant rainfall on the western slopes and drier conditions east of the mountains, exemplify this phenomenon.
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Solar Radiation Exposure
Higher elevations receive more intense solar radiation due to thinner atmosphere and reduced cloud cover. This increased exposure can lead to higher ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels, impacting human health and requiring specific precautions for sun protection. Comparing UV radiation levels in high-altitude cities like Albuquerque with those at lower elevations illustrates this effect.
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Vegetation Zones
Elevation influences vegetation distribution, creating distinct vegetation zones based on temperature and precipitation gradients. Lower elevations often support grasslands or forests, while higher altitudes transition to alpine meadows and eventually barren rock. Analyzing the vegetation patterns on a mountain slope provides a visual representation of the impact of elevation on ecosystems.
Integrating elevation considerations into “best states for weather” assessments provides a more nuanced understanding of regional climate variations. Recognizing the influence of elevation on temperature, precipitation, solar radiation, and vegetation allows for informed decisions regarding location choices, recreational opportunities, and adaptation to changing climate conditions. Considering specific examples, such as comparing the climates of Asheville, North Carolina, situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with the coastal plains of North Carolina, further illustrates the significant role of elevation in shaping local climates.
9. Proximity to Water
Proximity to large bodies of water significantly influences local climate conditions, playing a crucial role in “best states for weather” evaluations. Water’s high specific heat capacity moderates temperature fluctuations, while large-scale water circulation patterns impact regional precipitation and humidity levels. Coastal regions and areas adjacent to large lakes experience distinct climate patterns compared to inland locations, influencing decisions related to settlement, agriculture, and recreational activities. Understanding the influence of proximity to water provides valuable insights for evaluating climate suitability and informing choices regarding location and lifestyle.
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Temperature Moderation
Water absorbs and releases heat more slowly than land, moderating temperature fluctuations in nearby areas. Coastal regions experience cooler summers and warmer winters compared to inland locations at similar latitudes. This moderating effect creates more stable and predictable temperature ranges, often considered desirable for human comfort and agricultural productivity. Comparing the climates of San Francisco, located on the coast, with Sacramento, situated inland, demonstrates this temperature moderation effect.
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Humidity Levels
Proximity to water increases humidity levels due to evaporation. Coastal areas typically experience higher humidity than inland regions, influencing perceived temperature and impacting human comfort, particularly during warmer months. This increased humidity can exacerbate heat, making warm temperatures feel more oppressive. Conversely, it can mitigate the dryness of cold air in winter. Comparing the humidity levels of Miami, located on the coast, with those of Orlando, situated inland, illustrates this effect.
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Precipitation Patterns
Large bodies of water influence precipitation patterns. Evaporation from oceans and lakes provides moisture for cloud formation and precipitation. Coastal areas often receive more rainfall than inland regions, particularly in areas where prevailing winds carry moisture onshore. The “lake effect snow” phenomenon, where cold air passing over relatively warm lake water generates significant snowfall downwind, exemplifies the impact of proximity to water on precipitation. The contrasting precipitation patterns of Buffalo, New York, located downwind of Lake Erie, with those of Rochester, New York, situated further inland, illustrate this phenomenon.
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Sea Breezes and Land Breezes
Coastal regions experience localized wind patterns known as sea breezes and land breezes. During the day, cooler air from over the water flows onshore, creating a refreshing sea breeze. At night, the land cools faster than the water, causing cooler air to flow offshore, forming a land breeze. These localized wind patterns influence temperature and humidity levels, contributing to the unique climate characteristics of coastal areas.
Integrating proximity to water into “best states for weather” assessments provides a comprehensive understanding of regional climate variations. Recognizing the influence of large bodies of water on temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind patterns allows for informed decisions regarding location choices based on individual needs and preferences. This understanding, combined with an analysis of other climate factors, empowers individuals to make informed choices that prioritize comfort, safety, and overall well-being, ultimately contributing to a more nuanced understanding of “best states for weather.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Ideal Climates
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the selection of locations with desirable weather conditions, clarifying potential misconceptions and providing concise, informative responses.
Question 1: Does a “best” climate exist objectively?
No single climate universally satisfies all preferences. Optimal climate selection depends on individual priorities, factoring in temperature preferences, tolerance for humidity, and desired seasonal variations. Defining “best” requires aligning climate characteristics with personal needs and lifestyle.
Question 2: How does climate impact daily life?
Climate significantly influences lifestyle choices, affecting clothing, recreational activities, and even dietary preferences. Regional climates dictate housing construction, transportation infrastructure, and public health considerations. Understanding climate impact enables informed decisions regarding location and lifestyle adaptation.
Question 3: Can microclimates significantly differ from regional climates?
Microclimates, localized atmospheric conditions differing from surrounding areas, can vary significantly due to factors like elevation, proximity to water, and urban heat island effects. Recognizing microclimate variations within a region provides a nuanced understanding of localized weather patterns, informing site-specific decisions related to agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.
Question 4: How does climate change affect “best states for weather” considerations?
Climate change introduces dynamic shifts in established weather patterns. Regions historically known for specific climate characteristics may experience altered temperatures, precipitation regimes, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. Evaluating long-term climate projections becomes essential for assessing future suitability and informing adaptation strategies.
Question 5: Are there online resources for evaluating climate data?
Numerous online resources provide detailed climate data, including historical weather records, long-term climate projections, and interactive maps visualizing temperature, precipitation, and other relevant metrics. Utilizing these resources facilitates informed decision-making regarding location selection based on specific climate preferences and risk assessments.
Question 6: Beyond weather, what factors contribute to location desirability?
Factors such as economic opportunities, cost of living, cultural amenities, and access to healthcare and education contribute significantly to location desirability. Climate considerations should integrate with these broader factors to ensure a comprehensive assessment aligned with individual priorities and long-term goals.
Understanding individual climate preferences and conducting thorough research remain crucial for identifying suitable locations. Consulting reliable climate data resources and considering long-term climate change projections facilitate informed decisions aligned with personal needs and priorities.
The following sections will delve into specific geographic regions often cited for their desirable climates, offering detailed analyses of their respective climate profiles and exploring the factors that contribute to their popularity.
Practical Tips for Evaluating Climate Suitability
Selecting a location with a desirable climate requires careful consideration of various factors beyond average temperatures and rainfall. These practical tips offer guidance for navigating the complexities of climate assessment and making informed decisions aligned with individual needs and priorities.
Tip 1: Prioritize Specific Climate Preferences: Objectively defining a “best” climate proves elusive. Begin by identifying specific climate preferences, such as temperature ranges, humidity tolerance, and desired seasonal variations. Clarifying these priorities provides a framework for evaluating locations based on individual needs.
Tip 2: Research Beyond Average Temperatures: Average temperature data provides a limited perspective. Investigate temperature extremes, diurnal temperature swings, and the duration of specific temperature ranges to gain a comprehensive understanding of a region’s climate profile.
Tip 3: Consider Humidity’s Impact: Humidity significantly influences perceived temperature and comfort levels. Evaluate humidity data alongside temperature information to assess the combined effect on overall climate suitability, particularly for individuals sensitive to high humidity.
Tip 4: Analyze Precipitation Patterns: Understand precipitation patterns beyond average rainfall totals. Consider the frequency, intensity, and seasonal distribution of rainfall, snowfall, and other precipitation types. Assess the potential for drought, flooding, and other precipitation-related risks.
Tip 5: Evaluate Air Quality: Air quality significantly impacts respiratory health and overall well-being. Consult Air Quality Index (AQI) data and consider the prevalence of allergens, pollutants, and other air quality factors when evaluating locations.
Tip 6: Assess Severe Weather Risks: Research the historical frequency and intensity of severe weather events, including hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, and wildfires. Evaluate the potential impact of these events on safety, infrastructure, and daily life.
Tip 7: Factor in Elevation’s Influence: Elevation dramatically impacts temperature, precipitation, and solar radiation exposure. Consider the influence of elevation on local climate conditions, particularly in mountainous regions, to understand microclimate variations.
Tip 8: Understand the Impact of Proximity to Water: Proximity to large bodies of water moderates temperatures, influences humidity levels, and affects precipitation patterns. Evaluate the impact of proximity to oceans, lakes, and other large bodies of water on regional climate conditions.
Implementing these tips facilitates a thorough climate assessment, empowering informed decisions that align with individual needs and preferences. Prioritizing specific climate criteria, researching beyond average data, and considering the interplay of various climate factors contribute to successful location selection and enhanced quality of life.
In conclusion, understanding regional climate nuances and potential risks empowers individuals to make informed decisions regarding location and lifestyle. By carefully considering the factors discussed above and utilizing available resources, individuals can identify locations that offer the “best” climate for their specific needs and preferences.
Optimal Climate Selection
Determining the most suitable climates involves a nuanced understanding of various interacting factors. This exploration has highlighted the significance of temperature ranges, humidity levels, precipitation patterns, air quality, severe weather risks, seasonal variations, elevation impact, and proximity to water. No single location universally satisfies all preferences; therefore, prioritizing individual needs and conducting thorough research remain paramount. Objective analysis of these factors, combined with an understanding of personal tolerances and lifestyle preferences, empowers informed decision-making.
Climate plays a crucial role in shaping quality of life, influencing everything from daily activities to long-term health outcomes. As climate patterns continue to evolve, adapting to changing conditions and prioritizing sustainable practices becomes increasingly critical. Continued research and informed decision-making will remain essential for navigating the complexities of climate selection and ensuring long-term well-being in the face of evolving environmental dynamics. Proactive adaptation and sustainable practices will ultimately define the future of “best states for weather” considerations.