As we bid farewell to winter, many eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring and the promise of warmer days. Meteorologists, however, recognize the onset of spring a few weeks prior to the vernal equinox, marking the official start of the season. This distinction is not merely a product of impatience but rather stems from meteorologists’ flexible approach to defining seasons based on temperature trends.
The vernal equinox, occurring on Thursday, March 20, 2025, symbolizes the sun’s direct rays illuminating the equator. This celestial event, along with its autumnal counterpart and the summer and winter solstices, is influenced by the Earth’s axial tilt as it orbits the sun, giving rise to the concept of astronomical seasons.
In contrast to astronomical benchmarks, meteorologists categorize seasons according to temperature patterns. The coldest trimester in the Northern Hemisphere typically spans from December to February, while the warmest months fall between June and August. This practical approach, known as meteorological winter and summer, aligns more closely with temperature fluctuations rather than astronomical positions.
Notably, meteorological seasons offer a more coherent representation of climate realities, particularly evident in the transition from winter to spring. By grouping seasons based on temperature cues, meteorologists can accurately track weather trends and seasonal variations. This method also simplifies the calculation of seasonal data, commencing each meteorological season on the first of the month.
As we embrace the forthcoming month of March, characterized by lengthening daylight hours and rising temperatures, the anticipation of spring’s arrival grows. Despite March’s reputation for inclement weather, the gradual increase in daylight and higher sun angle herald the transition into a new season of renewal and growth.
Temperatures typically increase by around 10 degrees in the Midwest, Northeast, and Plains regions by the end of the month. Sara Tonks, a skilled meteorologist at weather.com, holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from Georgia Tech, as well as a master’s degree in Marine Science from Unity Environmental University.
