With spring around the corner, those around the DMV are eagerly waiting for the return of the cherry blossoms. While we are still a few weeks out, the National Park Service projects peak bloom will hit the region between April 2-5.
According to the National Park Service, “The peak bloom date is defined as the day when 70% of the Yoshino Cherry (Prunus x yedoensis) blossoms are open.”
Big news! We’re projecting cherry blossom peak bloom to fall between April 2 – April 5. Peak bloom is the day when 70% of the Yoshino #cherryblossoms are open, creating gorgeous clouds of white & pink flowers floating around the Tidal Basin: https://t.co/Yd0Z1y1FHD #WashingtonDC pic.twitter.com/Twikj5mOs4
— National Mall NPS (@NationalMallNPS) March 1, 2021
Since the projection date is still a few weeks away, the forecast is not yet set in stone. Predicting the peak bloom is “almost impossible more than 10 days in advance.” Weather conditions, including warm or cool temperatures, can affect the date of peak bloom.
Cherry blossom fanatics can expect the annual festival and celebration to look a little different this year, with many of the events being held virtually. While the Tidal Basin will still be open to visitors, you will also be able to check out the transforming trees through the 24/7 live Bloom Cam.
Updates will continue to be posted as the trees along the Tidal Basin progress through their bloom stages. The 2021 National Cherry Blossom Festival is scheduled for March 20-April 11.
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