NORFOLK, Va. — The Vernal Equinox (a.k.a. Spring Equinox) is happening Tuesday, March 19 at 11:06 p.m. After that, the sun's direct rays will start falling in the northern hemisphere and the warmer months are on the way!
So with spring just around the corner, this is a great time to dive into the spring outlook and what is ahead over the coming months. Let's start by looking at what we've seen this time of year over the past couple of decades.
Norfolk has averaged 3.7 inches of rain for March, 3.4 inches for April, and 3.8 inches for May. The total amount of 10.9 inches has typically fallen over the course of 32 days during that three-month timespan.
March, April, and May are likely to be wetter than usual in the southeast US this year. This outlook takes into account the current El Nino which is in place but is fading. The Climate Prediction Center believes it is likely that Hampton Roads and Northeast North Carolina will see above-average precipitation from March through May.
When you average the all high and low temperatures from March, April, and May over the past 25 years, it's about 59.7° F. Around the US, it looks like these months will be warmer than average in the Pacific Northwest, the Great Lakes Region, and the northeastern part of the country.
If you are a fan of warmer weather, you are in luck. It is also likely that Hampton Roads and northeast North Carolina will be warmer than average.
A few more things to consider about what is happening with the weather...
We have had several windy days over the past couple of weeks. It's no surprise with March typically being the windiest month on average for Hampton Roads.
With spring comes increasing opportunities for severe storms. While May typically is the peak month for tornadoes nationally, April has averaged the most tornadoes for Virginia and North Carolina. We have a similar peak in activity in September.
Also with the current El Nino likely to be gone this summer, that will contribute to the likelihood of a busier than normal Atlantic Hurricane Season.
As always, there is plenty for our weather team to keep tabs on. At 13News Now we'll keep you posted if and when severe storms threaten!
