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
Stonehenge during the June 2020 summer solstice.
Friday, June 20, 2025

Longest day of the year

Today marks the summer solstice
Saturday, May 3, 2025

May astronomy outlook

Meteor shower and the Flower Moon
Derecho iowa
Sunday, June 22, 2025

Stay severe weather-aware

What are derechos?
All weather news
This might also interest you
Thursday, July 10, 2025

Daily briefing

Severe risk for the Carolinas, extra hot desert
Monday, July 7, 2025

Struggle after disaster

Hill Country braces for more rain
Friday, July 11, 2025

Daily briefing

Severe storms possible for Great Lakes, Cali's heat
All articles
Weather & Radar

www.weatherandradar.com

instagramfacebookthreadsContact uslinkList
Privacy policy | Legal info | Accessibility statement