London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Clerkenwell 1886
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Clerkenwell, St. James and St. John]
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The Meteorology of the year was as follows:—
| 1886. | Temperature. Average. | Difference from average of 45 years. | Humidity (Saturation=100.) | Height of Barometer. | Rain in inches. | Difference from average of 72 years. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 48.7 | -0.7 | 81 | 29.7 | 24.2 | -1 8 |
| First Quarter (Jan., Feb.,March | 36.5 | - 3.5 | 85 | 29.7 | 5.3 | + 0.1 |
| Second Quartar .. (April, May, June') | 52.5 | —0.4 | 77 | 29.7 | 5.9 | + 0.1 |
| Third Quarter (July, Aug., Sept.) | 61.5 | + 0.7 | 77 | 29.8 | 4.8 | —2.4 |
| Fourth Quarter . (Oct., Nov., Dec.) | 44. | + 0.5 | 87 | 29.6 | 8.0 | x 0.3 |
Hence the mean temperature of the year was slightly below
the average; that of the first two quarters being below, that of
the two latter quarters above. These relations have an important
influence upon the mortality of the Parish: for a cold
winter increases the deaths from pulmonary diseases, while a
warmer one diminishes them; and a warm summer increases,
while a cold summer diminishes the deaths from diarrhoea.
The amount of rain, which purifies the air, and scours the
sewers and drains, is also of importance; the amount was nearly
two inches less than the average.
I have the honour to remain, Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
J. W. GRIFFITH, M.D.,
Member of the Royal College of Physicians.