Winter has officially arrived, although the temperatures might not yet reflect that reality. The longest night and shortest day of the year, known as the winter solstice, marked the start of winter on December 21, 2024, at 4:21 a.m. EST, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
The winter solstice occurs when the Earth’s axis is tilted farthest from the sun, resulting in the first day of winter in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a significant event as it signifies not only the beginning of winter but also the gradual return of longer days following this point.
Interestingly, the timing of the winter solstice varies each year and typically falls between December 20 and December 23. This variation is due to discrepancies in the calendar and Earth’s orbit around the sun. For 2024, it coincidentally lands on Saturday, December 21, heralding the onset of winter and the accompanying cold weather and holiday festivities.
Looking ahead, winter will officially conclude on March 20, 2025. As we enter this season, there is a sense of anticipation for the increased daylight hours that will gradually return, illuminating the path to spring and new beginnings.
In summary, while the cold may be daunting, it is also a reminder of the beauty of seasonal changes and the promise of longer, brighter days ahead.