Introduction to Meteorological Fall
The astronomical start to the season begins on Sept. 22, 2025, at 2:19 pm EDT. Meteorologists and climatologists look at the seasons a little differently than most.
Understanding the Seasons
The Earth’s tilt on its axis gives us our seasons. In the Northern Hemisphere, the spring and fall equinoxes happen when the sun’s direct rays pass over the Equator. They’re farthest north on the summer solstice as we lean toward the sun. On the winter solstice, they reach their southernmost point while we lean away from the sun.
What You Need To Know
Most people use the traditional astronomical seasons
Meteorological seasons are more convenient for weather records
Meteorological fall is from Sept. 1 through Nov. 30
The Reason Behind Meteorological Seasons
Our planet’s movement is predictable, but it isn’t perfect. Astronomical seasons start around the same time, but the exact date varies. The autumnal equinox occurs anywhere between Sept. 21-23. The winter solstice falls between Dec. 20-22. As a result, each season can be anywhere from 89 to 93 days long.
The Challenge of Record-Keeping
That would make record-keeping for weather and climate extremely tricky. Making comparisons between years isn’t quite apples-to-apples if the start and length of a season change each year.
Climatological Seasons
That’s why we have climatological seasons. They always start on the first day of a particular month and only vary between 90 and 92 days long or 3 months at a time. This makes data and record keeping streamlined for meteorologists and climatologists.
The Benefits of Meteorological Seasons
It also turns out that the warmest and coldest 91-day periods of the year line up better with climatological summer and winter.
Timely Weather Data and Information
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
Conclusion
In conclusion, meteorological fall is a more convenient and practical way of defining the seasons, especially for record-keeping and data analysis. It provides a more consistent and streamlined approach to understanding and comparing weather patterns and climate trends.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between astronomical and meteorological seasons?
A: Astronomical seasons are based on the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun, while meteorological seasons are based on the annual temperature cycle and are defined as specific periods of the year.
Q: Why do meteorologists use meteorological seasons?
A: Meteorologists use meteorological seasons because they provide a more consistent and practical way of defining the seasons, making it easier to compare weather patterns and climate trends from year to year.
Q: When does meteorological fall start and end?
A: Meteorological fall starts on September 1 and ends on November 30.
