Home / Editor's Pick /

When does winter actually begin? Meteorologists say today!

01:00 PM
December 1, 2024

Meteorologists say today!
When does winter actually begin?

Red squirrel in winter

It is dark, (possibly) wet, and chilly outside. Three indicators that winter is here… but is it actually?

There are two definitions when it comes to winter. You could look at it meteorologically or astronomically.

The simple version lays with the meteorological definition. Here, the seasons are split using the standard calendar with each season lasting three full months. In this system, winter begins today on December 1st and lasts until March 1st when spring arrives.

Now for the astronomers out there. Using the astronomical definition we look towards the Winter Solstice. Since this changes slightly each year, there is a new start date for winter annually.

This year, the astronomical winter season will begin on or on either side of December 21st, lasting until March 20th.

Weather & Radar USA editorial team
More on the topic
Saturday, May 3, 2025

May astronomy outlook

Meteor shower and the Flower Moon
rip current
Saturday, July 12, 2025

As more head to the coast

Rip currents & safety tips
Saturday, April 26, 2025

Off the coast of Sardinia

Waterspout seen from cruise ship
All weather news
This might also interest you
Friday, July 11, 2025

Daily briefing

Severe storms possible for Great Lakes, Cali's heat
Track hurricanes & tropical storms on the Weather & Radar app!
Sunday, July 6, 2025

Hurricane season

Track hurricanes on the app
Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Daily briefing

Fronts stay north, plenty of Gulf moisture for South
All articles
Weather & Radar

www.weatherandradar.com

instagramfacebookthreadsContact uslinkList
Privacy policy | Legal info | Accessibility statement