Mini ice age - Forewarned is forearmed

Many people will be surprised to hear that we may be on the verge of a mini ice age. It seems like only a few days since we were being threatened with global warming. Is this good news, or bad, or maybe both?

Scientists are expressing concern over the lack of sunspots and the decline in solar flares emanating from the sun. They suggest it could be an indication that Earth is heading for another mini ice age, last experienced in the mid 17th century. That was reputed to have lasted for about 70 years.

Cork County Council has drafted a leaflet advising householders on how to prepare for another cold spell. Maybe it will not develop, but people should be prepared, especially after the last two winters. In 2009 there was serious flooding and last year we experienced the coldest spell in decades.