By JESSA LEWIS
6 News Reporter
KNOXVILLE (WATE) - Things are much different this January in East Tennessee than last year. Warmer weather has taken over. Knox County students haven't had one day off for inclement weather.
With temperatures in the 60s Tuesday, people who had the opportunity to venture outdoors took advantage of the rare, pleasant January day.
"It's really nice weather, and my little girl likes to play at the park and so I thought it would be nice to enjoy the good weather," said Fountain City Park visitor Marissa Sparks.
The mild temperatures made lunch on outdoor patios an option for those who couldn't take off the whole day.
"It's wonderful. As far as what do we get, like two or three days of rain per week now? It is really nice to get a little break," said Jeff Gangwer, who enjoyed his lunch outside at Market Square.
People who spoke to 6 News agreed the temperatures were unusual, but then again, they've been unusual in much of the U.S. this winter.
"It is a little unusual this time of year, even throughout the U.S. it's kind of unusual what they're having. But I don't question it too much when you get a nice day to come out and relax," Gangwer said.
Everyone wanted to enjoy the sun while it lasted, and hoped it would stay out a little longer. They also hope a mild winter won't make for a turbulent spring.
"I think Mother Nature's just not so happy these days," Gangwer said.
Kids played at Fountain City Park without jackets.
The mild temperatures made lunch on outdoor patios an option.
Vendors even sported shorts on Market Square.
