First Day of the Meteorological Spring

Take a look at the March Almanac. During this month we gain 1 hour and 17 minutes of daylight, and the average high temperature jumps from 49 to 61 degrees. The average overnight low also finally gets above freezing by the 31st. Most recognize the start of spring when the Vernal Equinox occurs. This year, it occurs on Sunday the 20th, when daylight hours and night time hours are equal. Today (March 1st) marks the first day of the Meteorological Spring. Why? For climatology, it is easier to keep track of data and records per month when it begins on the first. The meteorological winter is classified as the cold months of December, January, and February, while most recognize winter when the Winter Solstice occurs. This can range from the 20-22nd. Another reason to start keeping data from the first, the equinoxes and solstices vary from year to year. For additional weather updates follow @ABC17Stormtrack on Twitter.