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D.C. Cherry Blossoms Reach Peak Bloom

Peak bloom is when about 70% of Yoshino blossoms open.

Overview

  • The National Park Service declared the Yoshino trees at peak bloom Thursday morning, confirming that the display has officially begun.
  • A warm spell with 70s this week, following a 78-degree weekend, sped the trees from the “Puffy White” stage to full flower.
  • The display lasts longer in cool, calm weather, while rain, wind, or next week’s warmth could speed petal drop.
  • Local forecasts favor Thursday for pleasant viewing, with periods of rain expected Friday and a cooler, breezy weekend to follow.
  • Long-term records show D.C.’s peak dates have shifted about a week earlier since 1921, a pattern scientists tie to a warming climate.