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Spring & Memorial Day Weather Forecast 2024

What's in store for spring? Here's what we're forecasting for the US and Canada, plus important spring gardening info you need!

Here in the Northern Hemisphere, we welcome spring on Tuesday, March 19 at 11:06 p.m. EDT, with the arrival of the spring equinox. However, the season and the weather may not be on the same page. The question on everyone’s mind is, “when does the weather get warmer?” Here’s the Farmers’ Almanac spring weather forecast, including general spring weather 2024 information as well as specifics for upcoming holidays.

Note: The Farmers’ Almanac updates this Spring Weather Forecast once a year, so be sure to bookmark this page or sign-up for our Newsletter to get updates.

Spring Weather Forecast 2024 – United States

Ski-lovers rejoice! We’re heading for a “Polar Coaster Spring.” Farmers’ Almanac long range weather forecast calls for many days of cold temperatures. That’s right, “The BRRR is Back” … and it may stay a while!

Related: See Your Region’s Monthly Forecasts Here

Overall, we see a cool and stormy season for most places of the United States. (Jump to Canada’s Spring 2024 Weather Forecast.) The exceptions will be in The Southeast and South Central states, where temperatures will be a bit warmer, but even areas in the Southwest will see a slow warm-up.

The Farmers' Almanac Spring Weather Forecast 2024 map for the United States.
The Farmers’ Almanac Spring Weather Forecast 2024 map for the United States.

Spring Showers?

April’s showers may produce some severe weather for areas in the Southeast and South Central regions. The Northwest will see a very cloudy and cool start to the spring season.

Related: “The louder the frog, the more the rain” and other fun spring weather lore sayings

Will the weather impact your Easter Sunday plans?

United States Easter Forecast

Easter is on Sunday, March 31, 2024. As you plan your day, knowing what the weather might be like is really important. Should you bring a rain jacket for your Easter egg hunt, or should you wear a warm coat instead? Here’s what the Farmers’ Almanac is predicting for your Easter weekend, Thursday, March 28-Sunday, March 31, 2024.

Zone 1 – Northeast & New England

New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Washington D.C.

Colder, snow to north, heavy showers south.

Zone 2 – Great Lakes, Ohio Valley & Midwest

Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Wisconsin

Heavy Midwest storm sweeps east-northeast, produces snow to north, heavy showers, thunderstorms to south.

Zone 3 – Southeast

Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Florida

Showers, thunderstorms.

Zone 4 – North Central

Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana

Mixed clouds.

Zone 5 – South Central

Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico

Sunny to partly cloudy.

Zone 6 – Northwest

Washington, Oregon, Idaho

Slowly clearing.

Zone 7 – Southwest

California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona

Gradually clearing skies.

Snowy April?

The Farmers’ Almanac long range weather forecast calls for many days of cold temperatures, with some possible late snow through much of April over the Northeast, Great Lakes, and North Central regions of the country.

What will summer bring? Stay tuned or if you can’t wait, order your copy of Farmers’ Almanac 2024!

Total solar eclipse 2024 locations. 

The Weather And Total Eclipse Viewing

Curious how spring weather 2024 will affect your view of the Great American Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024? Weather conditions may present a challenge for those in the North. We recommend heading south, towards the southern end of the eclipse zone, where skies have a better chance of being clear.

See total eclipse 2024 viewing locations, including Farmers’ Almanac weather forecasts for each!

How About May?

May looks to be on the cool side, with an active storm track possibly leading to widespread severe weather. This is especially true over the Great Lakes, Midwest, and parts of the Southeast states during the third week of May.

A very wet and stormy month is also on tap for the South Central states. Warmer weather will prevail out West, although initially it will seem somewhat reluctant to move eastward.

Memorial Day Weather Forecast

Here are the Farmers’ Almanac long-range weather predictions for Memorial Day (from Friday, May 24, through Monday, May 27, 2024). We hope that everyone has a safe and pleasant holiday, whatever the weather brings!

Zone 1 – Northeast & New England

New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Washington D.C.

Frequent showers, then fresh, colder air into New England by Memorial Day.

Zone 2 – Great Lakes, Ohio Valley & Midwest

Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Wisconsin

Frequent rain, then fresh, colder air sweeps in. Clearing hopefully in time for Indy-500.

Zone 3 – Southeast

Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Florida

Localized thunderstorms Deep South; warm, humid.

Zone 4 – North Central

Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana

Cool/drier air sweeps in from Rockies, points east.

Zone 5 – South Central

Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico

Frequent showers, then turning colder. Some thunderstorms TX, damaging winds.

Zone 6 – Northwest

Washington, Oregon, Idaho

Partial clearing, continued chilly.

Zone 7 – Southwest

California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona

Changeable skies. Cool temperatures.

Get Growing With The Farmers’ Almanac Spring Forecast 2024!

Spring is gardening season! Here are 7 essential tips for getting your gardens going:

  1. Map out your garden’s layout: Select plant species that align with your vision. Account for crucial elements such as the amount of sunlight each area receives, the soil composition, and the spatial dynamics at hand. A strategic blueprint is the cornerstone of a flourishing garden.
  2. Enhance your soil: Assess and enrich the soil by integrating organic substances like compost or decomposed manure. This process supports fertility, optimizes drainage, and improves water retention, creating a prime habitat for robust plant development.
  3. Select seeds that are best for your environment. Whether starting from seeds or transplanting, compatibility with your garden’s microclimate is crucial for success. Also, be sure to check for seed viability: Are Your Seeds Still Good? Here’s How To Tell! Plus, here are more seed-starting tips.
  4. Timing is important: Stick to the planting timeline according to your region’s last frost date to set yourself up for the most success.
  5. Establish a regular watering schedule: A regular watering schedule that provides hydration without excess is essential. An investment in a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses can be advantageous, maintaining consistent soil moisture and reducing water consumption.
  6. Mulching: Mulching deters weeds, conserves moisture within the soil, and stabilizes temperature fluctuations. This practice improves the aesthetic appeal of your garden and also serves as a protective layer for plant roots.
  7. Pest prevention: Engage in continuous observation and maintenance of your garden to identify and manage potential pests, diseases, or nutrient imbalances promptly. Conscientious care, including regular pruning and deadheading, fosters plant health and encourages vigorous growth and flowering.

Related: Gardening By The Moon – Farmers’ Almanac Planting Calendar

Note: The spring season may bring persistent late frosts and occasional snowstorms, which can have a detrimental impact on agricultural production and property, resulting in losses. See below …

Navigating Spring’s Weather: An Advisory

The stretch from March to June in the United States is known for significant weather changes, especially as we transition from the colder months of winter into warmer ones. States such as Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia—noted by Sperling (via New York Times) as some of the riskiest places for weather-related challenges—typically experience the most dramatic shifts. Yet, the unpredictability of spring’s temperament is a national occurrence, influencing all regions.

Throughout the spring season, preparedness for a variety of weather events is essential. This period marks the onset of tornado season across southern and midwestern states, heralding not only the threat of tornadoes but also the incidence of related weather events including thunderstorms, hail, lightning, and the possibility of derechos—intense wind storms that can cause significant damage.

As spring progresses, certain areas may experience early heatwaves, while coastal regions in the southeast may begin to see the first signs of hurricane or tropical storm activity. Additionally, the likelihood of flooding is at its peak during spring. Preparation is key!

Spring Storm Home Safety Guide – 5 Tips

  1. Review your insurance coverage thoroughly. Understanding the specifics of your policy will help ensure that there are no unexpected gaps in coverage, particularly for storm-related damages. Be advised that certain property features, such as swimming pools, may not be included.
  2. Conduct regular inspections of your property to identify any damage that may have occurred due to seasonal weather conditions. Promptly addressing minor repairs can prevent them from escalating into more significant issues during severe weather events. Maintain clean gutters, install a chimney cap to inhibit moisture damage, and undertake any necessary property maintenance.
  3. Ensure the proper functioning of sump pumps. With springtime conditions potentially bringing increased runoff and rainfall, it is crucial that your sump pumps are operational to mitigate the risk of basement flooding.
  4. Secure outdoor items to safeguard against storm conditions. High winds can transform unsecured backyard items into hazardous projectiles. Prior to the arrival of a severe storm, store items such as patio furniture, lawn chairs, propane tanks, grills, and garden decorations indoors when feasible. For items that cannot be moved, secure them with sturdy ties.
  5. Prune and maintain trees to enhance safety. Removing dead branches and ensuring that living branches are at a safe distance—preferably 10 feet—from your home will reduce the risk of damage during storms. If you are uncertain about how to proceed, consider consulting with a certified arborist or a knowledgeable individual for guidance.

Related: Pet Safety Tips For Disaster Preparedness

Power Outage Preparedness Guidelines

When the power goes out, don’t be left in the dark! Here are 10 essential tips for emergency preparedness:

  1. Cell Phone Charging: Prior to the onset of a power outage, fully charge your mobile phone to keep your communication lines open. You may also purchase a portable charger (but you will also want to make sure that this is fully charged!)
  2. Stock Emergency Supplies: Maintain a reserve of essential supplies, including extra batteries, potable water, and a fully equipped first-aid kit.
  3. Essential Foods in a Cooler: Designate a cooler for the storage of essential perishable food items. This strategy will reduce the frequency of refrigerator door openings, thereby preserving the internal temperature and extending the freshness of food.
  4. Prepare Ice Reserves: To ensure a sufficient supply of ice, fill and freeze water in empty soda bottles. These can be utilized as ice packs for coolers or to maintain a lower temperature within your refrigerator during a power outage.
  5. Manual Operation of Garage Doors: Disconnect your electric garage door opener in advance, which will allow for manual operation and ensure vehicle access in the event of a power failure.
  6. Alternative Cooking Methods: Prepare for power outages by planning to use a camp stove or grill for outdoor cooking. Should a prolonged outage be anticipated, coordinate with neighbors for a shared meal to utilize perishable food items efficiently.
  7. Enhanced Emergency Illumination: Beyond standard flashlights, it is advisable to invest in battery-operated lanterns or LED light sticks. These lighting options offer more extensive coverage, making them beneficial for illuminating shared spaces or areas that may be occupied for longer durations during power interruptions.

Emergency Essentials

Customize your emergency preparedness strategy according to your family’s particular requirements and circumstances. Here are 6 tips that will certainly come in handy:

  1. Stay Informed: Be sure you’re receiving severe weather alerts on your cell phone. (Most cell phones are automatically equipped with emergency alerts.) Check with your carrier. Also, keep the contact information of your electricity provider readily available to report outages and obtain updates on service restoration. If you don’t have a battery-operated radio, consider acquiring one to get important announcements during emergencies.
  2. Communication Strategy: Develop a communication strategy for your family or household members. Confirm that everyone is informed about contact methods and a reunion location in case of separation. Additionally, choose someone outside the immediate area to serve as a central communication person, which will help in the event that local networks become congested during an emergency. Know your community’s warning system. And be sure everyone in the family is aware of what the signal sounds like.
  3. Review your town’s evacuation route and identify where shelters are located. If you have to evacuate at a moment’s notice, you don’t want to be scrambling for this information.
  4. Safeguard Essential Documents: Prepare a waterproof container for the safekeeping of vital documents, including identification, insurance details, medical records, and a list of emergency contacts. This container is important in situations where you may need to evacuate and need swift access to important documents.
  5. Cash Reserves: Allocate a modest sum of cash to be included in your emergency provisions. In scenarios where power outages render electronic transactions inoperative, having a cash reserve is practical for the acquisition of essential goods and services.
  6. Comfort Kit: Assemble a kit containing personal items that provide comfort and meet basic needs, such as additional clothing, blankets, essential medications, and personal hygiene products. In the event of an evacuation, the availability of these items can significantly alleviate discomfort during a period of distress.
Spring weather outlook 2024 calls for slowly rising temperatures in Canada.
The Farmers’ Almanac Spring Weather Forecast 2024 map for Canada.

Spring Weather Forecast 2024 – Canada

Warm weather will take its time arriving in Canada in spring 2024. Storms are expected at the beginning of the season, bringing a combination of heavy rain and snow to many areas of the country. Notably, Ontario may witness a delayed snowstorm coinciding with the Easter holiday.

Canadian Easter Forecast

Here’s what weather the Farmers’ Almanac is predicting for Canada’s Easter weekend, Thursday, March 28-Sunday, March 31, 2024:

Zone 1

Newfoundland, Labrador

Moderating temperatures in time for Easter Sunday.

Zone 2

Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec

Colder, with a heavy snowstorm bringing a very unsettled Easter.

Zone 3

Ontario

Another heavy snowstorm, coinciding with the Easter holiday.

Zone 4

Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan

Mixed clouds and sun for Easter holiday.

Zone 5

British Columbia

Slow clearing arrives in time for Easter.

April And May Spring Forecast 2024

Winter weather conditions will hang on through much of April. This will be especially true for Quebec and the Maritimes where a potent storm could possibly lead to a late season snowfall over the higher terrains of Quebec, Newfoundland, and Labrador during the third week of April. The end of April may also feature freezing temperatures for many areas in the Prairie Provinces.

Showery weather will persist for the East into May, along with occasional rumbles of thunder and it could continue to be rather cool. Ontario could see the weather alternate from fair and dry to stormy. The Prairies could be dealt an unsettled & showery spring and even British Columbia should see lots of cool, cloudy, damp conditions throughout this polar coaster spring season.

Curious about Victoria Day weather? See Your Region’s Monthly Forecasts Here

Join The Discussion

What are you looking forward to most about spring?

What activities are you planning?

How do you feel about the Farmers’ Almanac spring weather forecast?

Let us know in the comments below!

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Geneva Lewis

Changeable skys what the heck kind of a forcast is that. ?

Valerie

In Central Western Maine, the last growing season was the worst. Will it be a rainy season this year? I lost most of my plants last year, don’t want to make that mistake again if I can help it. Thanks.

Mary

Thank you…this is helpful information.

Linda

Thanks this is helpful

Heather

You are welcome!

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