In my neighborhood last year, the average temperature was 2.1 degrees above normal. That’s not much of a surprise since scientists called 2015 the hottest year on record. How hot was it in your neck of the woods? You can use this NYT interactive tool to find out.

+ Looking at past weather is a lot easier than forecasting its future. Remember that epic El Niño that dominated headlines for months in California and other drought-stricken states? Well, it might not be that big after all, and it could be followed by extremely dry conditions. (Or, you know, not.)