The D.C. area is leaping into spring with the start of cherry blossom season!
The National Park Service revealed its peak bloom prediction on Leap Day, Thursday, Feb. 29: The cherry trees will reach the ultimate phase between March 23 and March 26.
"Determining the dates for peak bloom is one of the great puzzles in the nation's capital," said Jeff Reinbold, the NPS' superintendent of the National Mall and Memorial Parks.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is set to run from March 20 to April 14.
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Storm Team4 forecasts peak bloom will occur March 24 — in the middle of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
The NPS uses long-term forecasts, historical records and the appearance of trees to predict peak bloom, Reinbold said.
"You heard it here first! We're projecting #cherryblossom peak bloom to fall between March 23-26 this year. One of #WashingtonDC's most anticipated events, the gorgeous blossoming trees produce a short-lived scene of splendor," @NationalMallNPS wrote on X.
What to Know About Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom
Peak bloom is when 70% of the Yoshino cherry trees around the Tidal Basin show open blossoms.
Weather plays a large role in determining when the cherry blossoms reach peak bloom — so keep an eye on the forecast to make your peak bloom plans!
Peak bloom typically lasts for several days.
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