The arrival of spring typically brings warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, but AccuWeather’s long-range forecast predicts a mixed bag for the United States this year. While the southern and central regions can expect an early taste of summer, the northern half of the country may face a delayed spring with lingering cold and even late-season snow.
“Spring is a season of change, and it will feel like a temperature roller coaster ride for millions of people this year,” said AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok. “Winter will overstay its welcome in parts of the Northeast. For many in the South, it will feel like summer arrived early in the middle of spring.”
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The northern U.S. may experience a slow transition to spring, with colder temperatures and potential for late-season snow, particularly in the interior Northeast and Midwest. This is due in part to the extensive ice cover on the Great Lakes, a result of the unusually cold January.
“The [frost] threat may last into the early to middle part of May,” Pastelok warned, raising concerns for farmers and gardeners.
The Pacific Northwest is also expected to have a colder start to spring due to a persistent pattern of stormy weather.
Meanwhile, the southern and central U.S. can expect above-average temperatures, with some areas experiencing summer-like heat as early as May. However, this warmth comes with a heightened risk of drought, particularly in the Southwest.
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“The Southwest will remain dry and heat up quickly,” Pastelok said. “Drought will expand and intensify throughout the region from Southern California to the southwestern Plains.”
This combination of heat and dryness also raises concerns about wildfires.
Severe Weather to Target Central US
The severe weather season is expected to be active, with the central U.S. facing the greatest risk of tornadoes and damaging storms. “The focus will be more over the Mississippi Valley and Tennessee Valley for tornado coverage and severe damage, rather than Tornado Alley,” explained Pastelok.
While Florida is expected to avoid most of the severe weather, the state could experience early heat and drought conditions by May.
La Niña’s Influence
The ongoing La Niña pattern, with cooler-than-average Pacific Ocean temperatures, is expected to influence weather patterns throughout the spring, potentially contributing to the delayed spring in the north and increased storminess in the Northwest.
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