Spring is on the Horizon: National Forecasters Predict Warmer Weather Ahead
A La Niña winter has just started, but it’s not expected to last long. National forecasters are already looking ahead to the spring season. A new long-range forecast, released Thursday, shows broad weather predictions for February, March, and April nationwide. For about half of the country, it appears spring-like weather is set to arrive early.
Above-Average Temperatures Expected for Much of the Country
A broad swath of the U.S., from Arizona all the way up to Maine, is favored to see above-average temperatures over the next three months. The southernmost states have the highest chance of seeing unseasonably warm weather, according to the Climate Prediction Center.
Cooler Weather Expected for Northern States
Meanwhile, the opposite is true for a select few northern states, where colder-than-normal weather is predicted. Washington, Oregon, Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska are all leaning toward a chillier start to spring.
Spring Showers: A Divided Country
When it comes to spring showers, the country once again looks divided into two. The Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes region, parts of the Midwest, and the Northeast are looking like they’ll see more rain than normal. But the Southwest and Gulf states are leaning toward dry conditions.
Drought Concerns in the South
A dry season down south could worsen already concerning drought conditions in Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
Middle Band of the U.S.: A Toss-Up
The predictions for the middle band of the U.S. are more of a toss-up. The states shaded in white on both maps have equal chances to see one of three outcomes: average conditions, above-average conditions, or below-average conditions.
Hawaii: Above-Normal Temperatures and Rainfall Expected
Hawaii, which is not shown in the maps above, is likely to see above-normal temperatures over the next three months, especially in the northwestern islands. Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island all have higher probabilities of extra rain in the start of spring, as well.
Conclusion
As the country transitions from winter to spring, it’s clear that the path ahead will be marked by varying weather patterns. While some regions can expect warmer temperatures, others will experience cooler conditions. Understanding these predictions can help residents and visitors alike plan and prepare for the changes to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the forecast predict for the southern states?
A: The southernmost states have the highest chance of seeing unseasonably warm weather.
Q: Which regions can expect more rain in the spring?
A: The Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes region, parts of the Midwest, and the Northeast are looking like they’ll see more rain than normal.
Q: Will Hawaii experience a wet or dry spring?
A: Hawaii is likely to see above-normal temperatures and extra rain in the start of spring, especially in the northwestern islands.
Q: Can I expect cool weather in the northern states?
A: Yes, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska are all leaning toward a chillier start to spring.
