Spring 2025 is just around the corner, with the first day of the season set for March 20, when the spring equinox occurs. This astronomical event marks the time when day and night are approximately equal as the sun crosses directly over the equator, signaling the official start of spring for both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
That said, many might feel the arrival of spring earlier than the actual date as recent warmer temperatures sweep across parts of Massachusetts and other locales, leading to the sentiment: "We still have a couple weeks to go," as reported by USA TODAY. The first day of spring is fascinating not just for seasonal changes but also for the excitement it brings after a long winter.
While the equinox is looked upon as the calendar's signal for spring, the meteorological definition starts on March 1, coincidentally aligning this year with the dates for national daylight saving time set for March 9. Meteorological spring runs from March 1 through May 31, primarily defined through averages of temperature, making this period feel more like spring.
Environment Canada meteorologist Derek Lee shared insights on the projected weather trends for March, indicating significant warmth above seasonal averages for the start of the month. He noted, "February ended up colder than average by about 2 C because of the cold snap at the beginning of the month," but the warm trend signals incoming spring temperatures.
Within the Lower Mainland, warmer-than-average temperatures are expected to dominate the forecast as March ushers in more showers--with reports estimating about 6 C to 7 C above seasonal averages to kick off the month. Rainfall is also predicted, with trace amounts expected as spring progresses.
Looking at the broader scope of meteorological spring, Lee asserted, "It is looking like a wetter than normal spring," urging residents to anticipate more consistent wet days as the season gains traction. The weather models indicate temperatures should trend slightly above normal overall during this transition.
And what of La Niña’s impact on the spring forecast? According to Lee, the phenomenon has already begun to wane, which means its influence on upcoming seasonal weather may diminish. There’s about a 66 percent chance it will move to neutral conditions—no longer swayed by La Niña or El Niño—over the next month. This shift suggests variability but with less extreme weather conditions, potentially aligning local forecasts more closely with average temperatures.
Given these changes, it's time for residents to prepare for fluctuated weather patterns as spring begins. The combination of warmer temperatures, transitioning storm patterns, and anticipated rainfall all contribute to shaping the local experience as communities step out of the cold grips of winter and welcome the blooming signs of spring.
With the reality of meteorological spring arriving, and the promise of longer days and brighter weather, the anticipation surrounding nature's renewal fosters not just joy but also concern for how the shifts may affect local ecosystems.
So, as the spring equinox approaches, many will be watching the skies, ready to embrace longer days, warmer weather, and the vibrant life typically associated with this time of year. For some, it’s also about preparing for the frequent storms and the moisture clouding the air this spring. Being aware of the predicted changes can help all residents maximize their enjoyment of the season and adapt to any unexpected shifts along the way.