D.C. cherry blossoms expected to peak bloom this week

In Washington, D.C., the cherry blossoms are approaching their expected peak bloom dates, with predictions set between March 28 and March 31, 2025. As of March 20, which marks the first day of spring, the Yoshino cherry trees surrounding the Tidal Basin reached the fourth stage of blooming, known as peduncle elongation. This stage follows the initial budding process and precedes the final blooming phase of puffy blossoms. The cherry trees typically bloom for a limited time; weather conditions such as temperature, rain, or wind can significantly impact the bloom duration. As such, the first lady Helen Herron Taft and Viscountess Chinda Iwa planted the very first Yoshino cherry trees in Washington D.C. back in 1912, laying the foundation for the celebration of these iconic blooms. There is a possibility that the ongoing construction work, initiated in August 2024 to replace seawalls along the Potomac River and Tidal Basin, may affect the viewing experience of some cherry trees. While the Tidal Basin remains the most popular location to witness the cherry blossoms in bloom, other cherry trees can be found throughout the city, with organizations like Casey Trees providing maps for people to explore these locations. Moreover, cherry blossoms are a significant part of Japanese culture, known as sakura, symbolizing the transient nature of life. In Japan, the cherry blossom season has commenced, with the Japan Meteorological Agency confirming the first blooming of the cherry blossoms in Tokyo. This blooming was announced after observing the Somei Yoshino cherry trees at Yasukuni shrine, where at least five blossoms were found, signaling the official start of the spring festival season. The forecast indicates that Japan's cherry blossoms will likely reach peak bloom in about ten days, paralleling the blooming events in Washington D.C. with both places showcasing the same essence of beauty associated with cherry blossoms during this time of year.