It is a well known and documented fact that low solar activity is linked with periods of colder temperatures over Europe, which also interestingly includes a rise in wheat prices. Sunspot activity did increase somewhat last year, however in terms of rotation............
I agree FS, however, this is a mufti-faceted problem. The Gulf of Mexico debacle (thanks BP) & all the dispersant (corexit) has taken a massive toll on the 'Gulf stream' - slowing it down considerably.
Some search engine sessions will avail you of plenty of vids on this subject.
Bottom line, I will be walking under palm Trees in Jan 2012 in 40 Deg's, while the UK will be covered in snow & ice
Hope you guys have put some ££'s away fro the heating bills!! Mind you, the war with the Mosquito's will start again as soon as Monsoon is over, can't have it all I spose......
PT