Today’s the Vernal Equinox and It Might Even Feel a Bit Like Spring

(Patty Wetli / WTTW News)(Patty Wetli / WTTW News)

Spring is always an iffy proposition in Chicago, but it officially begins Monday, whether or not the weather cooperates.

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The March equinox marks the sun crossing the equator, from the south to the north, bringing with it warmer temperatures and longer days in the norrthern hemisphere.

This is what it looks like from space. 


Here on the ground, the equinox is a chance to observe the phenomenon dubbed "Chicagohenge," when the sun rises due east and sets due west, framed between the city's skyscraper canyons.  

There won't be a whole lot of time to enjoy the view: Equinox sunrises and sunsets are the fastest of the year.


Even the forecast has a spring in its step, calling for temperatures that will feel more like March and less like January. While there will always be that one guy who busts out the shorts and flip-flops, everyone else can comfortably leave the heavy duty parka in the closet for a few days.


Nature is reawakening too. Be on the lookout for the first spring wildflowers.


Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 |  [email protected]

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