Happy Fall!

2014-09-01 18:39:44.000 – Arielle Ahrens,  Summit Intern

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Today is the first day of meteorological fall!

Why does meteorological fall begin on the first of September and not on the equinox, like astronomical fall? That’s because the meteorological and astronomical seasons are based on different things. The astronomical calendar is dependent on Earth’s position in relation to the sun, and the meteorological calendar is based on the annual temperature cycle. Meteorological summer encompasses the warmest months in the year (June, July, August), while meteorological winter encompasses the coldest months (December, January, February). Meteorological spring is defined as March, April, and May, and meteorological fall as September, October, and November. These are the transitional seasons. Of course, in the southern hemisphere, these would all be opposite! The National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) does a great job of explaining this, here.

Speaking of fall, I am excited to be sticking around for the season as a summit intern with Kaitlyn, Ryan, and Mike D. I had an absolute blast as a summer intern and am looking forward to all the new experiences these next few months will bring!

Arielle Ahrens,  Summit Intern