Understanding the Start of Fall
For some Texans, it may not feel like fall until the first Dallas Cowboys regular-season game or until the first corny dog gets fried at the State Fair. But when does fall officially start? In short, it depends on who you ask.
When is the First Day of Fall?
If you go by the astronomical measurement, the first day of fall arrives on the autumnal equinox. The equinoxes, which occur once in the fall and once in the spring, are when there is nearly an equal amount of day and darkness at all latitudes across the planet, according to the National Weather Service.
The 2025 fall equinox will be Monday, September 22 at 1:19 p.m. The season lasts until the winter solstice on December 21. This is the astronomical way of determining the start of fall, based on the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun.
Astronomical vs. Meteorological Fall
However, the National Weather Service counts seasons differently, instead using three-month groups. For weather data, fall is the months of September, October, and November. This is known as meteorological fall, which is used to simplify the collection and analysis of weather data.
So, while the astronomical fall starts on the autumnal equinox, the meteorological fall starts on September 1 and ends on November 30. Both ways of determining the start of fall are valid, but they have different purposes and uses.
What Will the Weather Be Like This Fall?
The Climate Prediction Center, part of the weather service, forecasted that the fall months will be hotter than normal in North Texas. While the forecast doesn’t say how far above the average the temperature might climb, it has a 40% to 60% chance of being above normal.
For reference, the monthly average highs for D-FW are 88 degrees in September, 78 degrees in October, and 66 degrees in November. This means that if the forecast is correct, we can expect temperatures to be higher than these averages, potentially leading to a hotter-than-usual fall.
The seasonal forecast also predicted a slight chance of less rain than normal for most of Texas, with a particularly dry autumn expected for the panhandle. North Texas’s rainiest season is usually spring, but a second wetter period often arrives in the middle of fall.
The Farmers’ Almanac Forecast
The Farmers’ Almanac also makes fall and winter forecasts, which can generate a lot of buzz. While The Scientific American said some scientists doubt its tactics and accuracy, it does forecast slightly different circumstances for Texas’s fall.
The almanac predicted a seasonably warm, dry start to the season, but suggested that the end of fall could bring more precipitation to the state. It’s also forecasting a colder and wetter winter than normal, which could bring snow and freezing rain to D-FW.
It’s worth noting that the Farmers’ Almanac uses a proprietary formula to make its predictions, which involves a combination of sunspot activity, planetary positions, and other factors. While its accuracy is not universally accepted, it can still provide a useful perspective on what to expect from the weather.
Staying Informed About the Weather
Whether you’re planning a trip to the State Fair or just want to stay up-to-date on the latest weather forecast, there are many resources available to help you stay informed. From the National Weather Service to the Farmers’ Almanac, there are a variety of sources that can provide you with the information you need to plan your activities and stay safe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the start of fall can be determined in different ways, depending on whether you use the astronomical or meteorological definition. While the astronomical fall starts on the autumnal equinox, the meteorological fall starts on September 1 and ends on November 30. The weather forecast for this fall is predicting hotter-than-normal temperatures and a slight chance of less rain than normal, but it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date on the latest forecast to plan your activities and stay safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the first day of fall?
A: The first day of fall, also known as the autumnal equinox, is on Monday, September 22 at 1:19 p.m. in 2025.
Q: What is the difference between astronomical and meteorological fall?
A: Astronomical fall starts on the autumnal equinox, while meteorological fall starts on September 1 and ends on November 30. Astronomical fall is based on the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun, while meteorological fall is based on three-month groups used to simplify the collection and analysis of weather data.
Q: What will the weather be like this fall?
A: The Climate Prediction Center is forecasting hotter-than-normal temperatures and a slight chance of less rain than normal for most of Texas. However, the Farmers’ Almanac is predicting a seasonably warm, dry start to the season, with a chance of more precipitation at the end of fall.
Q: How can I stay informed about the weather?
A: There are many resources available to help you stay informed about the weather, including the National Weather Service, the Farmers’ Almanac, and local news stations. You can also sign up for weather alerts and forecasts to stay up-to-date on the latest conditions.
