photo by Dave Lyons
BIG news from the National Park Service:
“We’re projecting cherry blossom Peak Bloom to arrive between March 29 – April 1 this year.
Extraordinary warm or cool temperatures have resulted in Peak Bloom as early as March 15 (1990) and as late as April 18 (1958). 🌸🌸🌸
Peak Bloom is defined as the period of time when 70% of the Yoshino cherry blossoms -the most common variety- are open, creating gorgeous clouds of white & pink flowers floating around the Tidal Basin.”
WMATA reports:
“Metro is prepared for our busiest time of the year: cherry blossom season!
Metro is the official transit partner of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, a celebration that runs from March 20 to April 12 and kicks off the spring and tourist season in the DMV.
Today, the National Park Service predicted peak bloom will happen between March 29 and April 1.
Transit is the easiest way to get to the blossoms and avoid the headache of driving and parking in the crowded Tidal Basin area. Metro is running safe, frequent, and reliable service and has paused all track work during the festival.
Bright blue, pink, fuchsia, and white cherry blossom-themed Metro vehicles will hit the tracks and streets on March 20. One train, three buses, and one Metro Access vehicle will be wrapped for cherry blossom season through the end of April. Special edition cherry blossom Smart Trip cards will also be available starting March 20.”