Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this morning, meaning there will be six more weeks of winter. However, AccuWeather.com meteorologists have their own Spring predictions.
Spring could shape up to include an active storm track for the Southeast, accompanied by a late start throughout the eastern two thirds of the nation.
Early spring, specifically March and April, could bring severe weather to the South. "An increased likelihood of tornadoes, damaging winds and thunderstorms from Texas to the Carolinas and Florida may be in store this Spring," said AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson.
For the eastern half of the U.S., a late, chilly bloom is in the forecast. "The Northeast, Ohio Valley, and Midwest may freeze later into Spring than usual," said Anderson. "The Northeast can expect dry and chilly conditions through April."
However, the Pacific Northwest may be on par for a seasonably mild first-part of Spring. "The Spring could be fairly mild for the Northwest region initially," Anderson said. "Temperatures will swing back to normal for the second half of Spring." Anderson said that Spring could also be wetter-than-normal for the Pacific Northwest.
The initial mild Northwest spring temperatures could spread eastward. "The warming trend from the western part of the nation could hit the Northeast, prompting an end to the late freeze," said AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Paul Pastelok.
The Midwest and Plains could also see more severe weather this Spring. "A more active tornado season may be in store for the Plains states," said AccuWeather.com Expert Senior Meteorologist and Severe Weather Enthusiast Henry Margusity. He said the region could see many more tornadoes than it did during the 2008 season.
Story by AccuWeather.com writer Carly Porter
If you have questions or want to speak to a meteorologist, contact:
Roberti@AccuWeather.com
Or call our 24-hour press hotline:
