Early Tulip Blooms in Skagit Valley

0:00Western Washington's warm and dry winter is speeding up spring blooms for tulips and cherry blossoms. Experts say the mild weather has triggered early flowering, with cherry blossoms at the University of Washington campus hitting peak soon, and tulips. In Skagit Valley ready to pop as early as this weekend, the Skagit Valley tulip festival kicks off a month of events on April 1st in Mount Vernon, known as the Netherlands of the Northwest. Growers at the four main tulip gardens expect a record early show thanks to the unusual winter warmth. This season ranks as the eighth warmest since records began in 1945. December brought extra rain in nearly 8.5 inches, but January and February stayed drier than average, with just 4.25 inches and 3 inches respectively. Warmest springs mean earlier leaf out nationwide, which could worsen allergies, mess with wildlife cycles, and threaten crops. A recent cold snap and wind might actually stretch out the tulip display by slowing things down a bit.

1:01Flower fans should grab their cameras and head out soon, as these early beauties won't wait around forever. You've been listening to Canada News today, AI-powered local news.