Meteorological Fall Is Officially Here

Grab the pumpkin spice and break out the fall decor. Meteorological fall officially begins September 1.

But wait. Doesn’t fall start later in September?

Yes, if you’re talking about astronomical fall. In the weather world, we do things a little differently.

What Is Meteorological Fall?

Meteorologists divide the year into four seasons based on the annual temperature cycle and calendar months. Here is how we break it down:

🌷 Spring: March, April, May

☀️ Summer: June, July, August

🍂 Fall: September, October, November

❄️ Winter: December, January, February

Fall and spring are considered transition seasons, taking us from the warmest part of the year toward the coldest, and vice versa.

Why Do Meteorologists Use Different Seasons?

Unlike astronomical seasons, meteorological seasons always begin on the first day of a month and are made up of three full calendar months.

That consistency makes it much easier for meteorologists and climatologists to compare things like temperatures and precipitation from one season to another and from year to year.

Fall Can Bring a Little Bit of Everything

One of the fun things about meteorological fall is just how much the weather can change between September and November.

September can still feel a lot like summer in parts of the country, while other areas may already be getting their first taste of chilly air or even their first snow. And don't forget about the tropics. Meteorological fall overlaps with some of the busiest weeks of Atlantic hurricane season.

So, happy meteorological fall, y'all!