DC's Cherry Blossoms Approach Peak Bloom Amid Climate Shifts The cherry blossoms along the National Mall in Washington, DC, are nearing their peak bloom, drawing visitors eager to witness the annual floral spectacle. Despite a harsh winter with snowfall in early March, the trees are now rapidly blooming after a weekend of temperatures reaching 78 degrees. The National Park Service (NPS) tracks the blossoms through six stages, with peak bloom defined as the day when 70% of the flowers are fully open. The NPS posted on X on March 25, noting that at least a third of the Yoshino cherry trees remain in Stage 5—puffy white flowers—before the sun and rising temperatures could push the blooms into peak status. Officials estimate peak bloom will occur by Thursday, March 26. The trees, a gift from Japan in 1912, are central to the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates their annual arrival. Historical data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reveals a trend: peak bloom dates have shifted earlier by about seven to eight days since 1921. In 16 of the past 20 years, the bloom has occurred before April 3. Scientists attribute this shift to global warming, which has accelerated spring events like flowering. However, the EPA’s website, which previously detailed climate change indicators, was redirected in early 2025. A technical document on cherry blossom bloom dates remains accessible via search. Climate change is also influencing blooming patterns in other regions. In Seattle, University of Washington researchers found that Yoshino cherry trees are highly correlated with temperatures from February through early March.#national_park_service #national_mall #yoshino_cherry_trees #environmental_protection_agency #kew_gardens
