CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- The year 2012 was the 10th warmest year reported since record-keeping began in 1880, making it the 36th consecutive year that our planet has seen above average global temperatures.  

According to a preliminary report by NOAA's National Climatic Data Center, the average global temperature was 0.81° F above the average of 60.9°F.  The global annual temperature has increased at an average rate of 0.11°F per decade since 1880 and at an average rate of 0.28°F per decade since 1970.

The warmest year on record is 2010.

To see the full report, click here.

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CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- A cold air mass now sitting over the region could couple with an area of low pressure moving in from Texas to bring snow and sleet to the Carolinas Friday. 

Models keep snow in the forecast for areas to the north.  The primary concern in Charlotte and the southern portions of our viewing area will be sleet or even freezing rain.  Precipitation should begin in the mountains in the late morning, then move into Mecklenburg county shortly after noon, then come to an end in the early evening hours.  This system will move in and out very quickly, meaning that large accumulations of any winter precipitation are unlikely, but bridges and overpasses could become slick for your afternoon commute, so use caution on the roads.

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- A major cool down is on they way and temps are forecast to dip to the lowest they've been in a couple of years. Is your heating system ready?

If your unit hasn't been serviced regularly, Jon Saxton, a technician with Morris Jenkins Heating and air says it could be at risk.

"It's a big load on the system right now," he said. "They've been just kind of chuggin' along doing their thing and now we're just kind of demanding them to run at a greater pace."

That greater pace could very well leave you in the cold.

"You have a risk of air flow issues, you know motors failing that haven't been tested lately," added Saxton. 

Another option when temps are all over the map? A programmable thermostat.  They are sold any hardware or home improvement store.