COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – March in southern Michigan serves as a critical bridge between seasons, characterized by a rapid increase in daylight and a gradual, though often volatile, climb in temperature.
As we move toward the vernal equinox March 20, the amount of daily sunlight expands by approximately three minutes per day, totaling an increase of roughly 80 to 90 minutes by month’s end.
This extra light is bolstered by the start of Daylight Saving Time that begins next weekend, which shifts sunsets later into the evening and provides a psychological boost to residents weary of the winter dark.
While the sun’s strengthening angle begins a more consistent thaw, temperatures typically follow a roller coaster pattern as cold northern air masses battle warmer southern currents.
The average high temperatures climb from the 30’s at the start of the month to the low 50’s by its conclusion.
Despite these gains, March remains notorious for its unpredictability; southern Lower Michigan can still average 5 to 10 inches of snow even as the first signs of spring, such as budding trees and returning birds, begin to emerge.
Comments