Cherry blossoms reach their peak

WASHINGTON – The cherry blossoms officially reached their peak Tuesday.

The peak is when 70 percent of the blossoms are open.

The peak can last for two weeks, although wind and rain can shorten the time frame. The area could see a thunderstorm late Thursday and morning showers Friday.

With the possibility of record-breaking temperatures Wednesday, lots of folks are on the Tidal Basin to see the trees.

Wednesday’s forecast calls for highs of 87 to 92. During the day Thursday, it will cloudy, with a high of 84. Friday will be in the low-to mid 70s with showers in the morning before it clears. The weekend brings lots of sunshine and temperatures back in the 60s.

The average peak bloom occurs April 4, but cooler weather this year pushed it back.

The latest peak bloom date for the trees has been April 18, 1958, according to the National Park Service.

In 2012, the trees on the Tidal Basin were at their peak March 20.

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