Meteorologist announces where spring will come earlier and where later
A meteorologist in Lithuania predicts variances in the arrival of spring based on current snow and ice conditions across the country.
In Lithuania, temperatures are expected to rise from February 22-23, marking the first thaw since January 2. Although the thaw was not severe, it was sufficient for the snow cover in the southwestern region to drop below the 10 cm threshold. This change signals the beginning of the transition to spring, as melting snow and ice are anticipated to continue, especially in the southwest where the ground is likely to be exposed first.
As temperatures rise, the snow and ice are expected to melt significantly starting from Friday, particularly in southwestern Lithuania. This region is forecasted to experience the quickest warming, suggesting that spring may arrive sooner there compared to other areas. Conversely, regions where the snow depth exceeds 40 cm may have to wait longer for the onset of spring. This is due to the insulating effect of thick snow and ice layers, which makes it difficult for temperatures to exceed the +4 to +5 °C mark, slowing down the melting process.
The implication of these weather patterns is significant for various sectors such as agriculture, transportation, and environmental assessments. Farmers will need to adapt their planting schedules according to the thawing conditions, while transport systems might face challenges in areas with lingering snow and ice. Furthermore, this predictive insight into seasonal changes can benefit local communities planning seasonal activities or preparing for the effects of the warming weather as it affects day-to-day life in Lithuania.