STAMFORD, Connecticut — As we approach the official start of spring on March 20, 2025, the changing of the seasons brings a wave of excitement and anticipation. The arrival of the spring equinox at 5:01 a.m. marks a pivotal event in the astronomical calendar, signaling not only the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere but also ushering in longer days and the promise of warmer weather.
For many, the transition from winter to spring is welcomed warmly. Daylight Saving Time started recently on March 9, brightening evenings and nudging people to step outside more often as temperatures begin to stabilize after a harsh winter. In fact, meteorologists pointed out that spring is also defined by how it begins. The first day of meteorological spring was March 1, while spring's astronomical debut is determined by the equinox.
Interestingly, the date of the spring equinox—often assumed to always fall on March 21—actually varies year to year, with 2025 being no exception. The specific date shifts because the Earth's orbit around the sun is elliptical and does not divide evenly into 365 days. This year, it will occur on March 20, and the next time the equinox lands on March 21 will be 2101, as stated by the Farmer’s Almanac.
For those wondering about the implications of the equinox, it serves as a reminder of the balance in nature. During the equinox, day and night are approximately equal everywhere on Earth. This moment signifies that, after March 20, daylight will start to dominate over darkness as we move toward summer solstice on June 20, when the day is longest.
Given this transitional period, communities around the globe often celebrate the arrival of spring with various cultural festivals. From cherry blossoms to tulips, nature's artwork begins to bloom, and people begin to embrace outdoor activities that the warmer weather encourages. However, there are varying definitions of when spring officially begins.
Meteorologically, spring is tracked based on temperature and seasons, while astronomical measurements are determined by celestial events like the equinoxes and solstices. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) elucidates this distinction, indicating that with astronomical seasons governed by Earth's position relative to the sun, meteorological seasons break down annually by temperature patterns. Hence, this year, while meteorology marks spring at the start of March, the astronomical definition will hold sway on March 20.
As spring unfolds, different regions anticipate varying weather patterns. The potential impact of the La Niña phenomenon—a climate pattern characterized by cooler ocean temperatures in the Pacific—could affect this spring's weather. If La Niña persists, the central and southern U.S., including Texas, could see an uptick in severe weather incidents, as suggested by NOAA. Currently, there’s a 34% chance La Niña will extend throughout Spring 2025, potentially heralding a season of turbulent weather.
The Farmer’s Almanac forecasts a contrasting scenario, indicating that Texas, Oklahoma, and the Great Plains may experience a “warm, dry” spring. It suggests that although the season may start with cooler-than-usual temperatures, by May, warmer conditions are expected to take hold across Texas, potentially shifting to above-normal warmth. Overall, while the weather may remain variable, the anticipation of spring’s arrival continues to grow.
In terms of future meteorological shifts, spring and summer's progression will require an awareness that rainfall patterns may be unpredictable. The potential for drier conditions in Texas places questions around agricultural practices and regional planning into perspective. Rainfall may linger near or slightly below normal levels, creating a need for stakeholders to prepare accordingly.
As March 20 approaches, a palpable excitement fills the air, as communities across the Northern Hemisphere gear up for spring. The mix of warming temperatures and the promise of outdoor vibrancy awaits. Whether it's through gardening, picnics, or simply basking in the sun, the season's arrival will undoubtedly inspire a collective embrace of renewal and growth.
