You might notice that the astronomical start dates shift by a day or two each year. This happens because a "calendar year" (365 days) doesn't perfectly match the "solar year" (roughly 365.24 days). Our leap year system helps correct this, but it causes the exact moment of the equinox or solstice to drift slightly over time.
March 1 – May 31 Duration: 92 days
These seasons begin on specific astronomical events—solstices and equinoxes—and their exact dates can shift slightly each year. When Do the Seasons Start and End in 2026? 4 seasons weather dates
The is the shortest day of the year. In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun is at its lowest point in the sky. Paradoxically, the Earth is actually physically closer to the sun in January (Perihelion) than it is in July; however, the tilt of the axis away from the sun is what causes the drop in temperature. You might notice that the astronomical start dates
Autumn is the cooling transition period where daylight shortens significantly and temperatures drop toward freezing. Vegetation goes dormant, leading to foliage changes. March 1 – May 31 Duration: 92 days