Overview
- The National Park Service, which said Monday the Yoshino trees reached Stage Five, now expects peak bloom within a day or two.
- Forecasts call for highs near 60 on Wednesday and well into the 70s on Thursday, conditions that could trigger peak bloom before a colder, showery Friday.
- Peak bloom means about 70% of Yoshino blossoms are open, and the display often lasts only a few days depending on wind, rain, or late frost.
- The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs March 20 through April 12, large crowds are likely, and park rules make picking blossoms illegal.
- The Washington Times highlights festival events, reports that President Trump said Japan will send 250 trees for the U.S. 250th birthday, and notes Tidal Basin seawall work finishing early and under budget.