Cherry Blossoms in Washington D.C. Peak Early Amidst Warm March Weather
Unprecedented Climate Changes Impact Cherry Blossom Season
Exceptionally warm March weather propelled Washington’s cherry blossoms to their second-earliest peak bloom in more than a century of records Sunday, reflecting the growing influence of human-caused climate change on the famed trees.
Historically Early Peak Bloom on March 15
Sunday’s peak bloom at the Tidal Basin, about two weeks earlier than normal, tied with 2000 as the second earliest on record; only the March 15, 1990, bloom came sooner in observations that date to 1921. This year’s peak bloom was so early, it preceded the official start of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which runs from March 20 to April 14, and was also ahead of the earliest projections.
Expediting Bud Development and Shifting Bloom Trend
Peak bloom, the last phase of a six-stage bud development cycle, occurs when 70 percent of the cherry trees are flowering. The buds sped through this cycle in just 15 days, faster than any other year in at least the past two decades.
As March temperatures have climbed over the past century, the average peak bloom date has advanced about six days, from April 4 to March 30. Including this year, each of the past five has seen a peak before March 29. Last year, it was on March 23 — more than a week early.
Temperatures this March have averaged more than 9 degrees above normal, ranking second warmest on record. Freezing temperatures haven’t occurred since Feb. 26.
A Popular Spectacle and The Effects of Climate Change
The mild weather drew thousands to the Tidal Basin on Saturday and Sunday as the blossoms reached their peak and temperatures soared into the mid-60s to the low 70s, about 10 to 15 degrees above normal.
Fond Farewell to Beloved Cherry Tree “Stumpy”
Groups flocked to catch a glimpse of the beloved tree known as Stumpy before it is removed as part of a multiyear plan to repair sea walls that have deteriorated since their construction. Some of the sea walls have settled by as much as five feet, the National Park Service said, while tidal water levels are increasing because of sea level rise — another indicator of climate change. As Stumpy reached peak bloom for the last time, floodwater surrounded it.
Enjoying the Blossoms for a Little Longer
A favorable forecast may allow visitors to enjoy the blossoms for another week or so. Whereas rainy and windy weather can strip the blossom petals and curtail the peak bloom period, this week is predicted to be mostly dry.
Extended Bloom Period with Favorable Weather
The trend toward chillier weather should prolong the bloom period. (Very warm weather tends to shorten it.) As long as there isn’t an unforeseen hard freeze, which would cause petals to wilt, the highs in the 50s and lows in the 30s should help extend the blossoms’ shelf life.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.
