epa10533699 Cherry blossoms are in bloom at the Tidal Basin, with the Washington Monument behind, on the day of the spring equinox in Washington, DC, USA, 20 March 2023. The spring equinox, when both of Earth's hemispheres receive equal sunlight, marks the beginning of spring. Peak bloom of the cherry blossoms, as defined when seventy percent of the blossoms are open, is expected to occur this week - earlier than usual due to warmer weather. EPA/MICHAEL REYNOLDS