UK Spring Starts March 1 Meteorologically, March 20 Astronomically

Spring arrived in the United Kingdom on March 1 according to the meteorological calendar, marking the start of warmer weather and longer days across the region. However, for those following the astronomical calendar, the season officially began on Friday, March 20, 2026, coinciding with the vernal equinox.

The discrepancy stems from two distinct methods for defining seasons. Meteorological spring, used by weather forecasters, divides the year into fixed three-month periods based on temperature cycles. It consistently runs from March 1 to May 31, providing a stable framework for climate data and planning. This year, the period began on a Sunday and will conclude on Tuesday, May 31. In contrast, astronomical spring aligns with Earth's position in its orbit around the Sun, resulting in slight annual variations. It typically starts about three weeks after the meteorological onset and extends until the summer solstice on June 21, a Sunday in 2026.

The vernal equinox, which occurred on March 20 this year, serves as the astronomical trigger. During this event, the Sun crosses the celestial equator, positioning Earth's axis neither tilted toward nor away from the Sun. This balance...