Meteorologists Welcome Spring on March 1

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As we enter March, meteorologists in the Northern Hemisphere are celebrating the start of spring, even though astronomical spring doesn't arrive until later in the month on the spring equinox. Meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser explains the differences between the two and why meteorologists follow a different seasonal calendar.

Why it matters

The distinction between meteorological and astronomical seasons is important for weather forecasting and reporting. Meteorologists use the more consistent meteorological calendar to better track seasonal weather patterns, while the astronomical calendar is based on the Earth's position relative to the sun.

The details

Meteorological spring begins on March 1 each year in the Northern Hemisphere, while astronomical spring is marked by the spring equinox, which typically falls around March 20-21. Meteorologists use the meteorological calendar because it provides a more consistent framework for tracking and reporting on seasonal weather patterns, which don't always align perfectly with the astronomical calendar.

• Meteorological spring begins on March 1 each year in the Northern Hemisphere.
• Astronomical spring is marked by the spring equinox, which typically falls around March 20-21.

What they’re saying