Stormy weather ahead, warns Farmers’ Almanac®

This year’s vernal equinox, the moment when the Sun lines up directly above the Earth's equator, will happen at 1:48 a.m. on March 20, EDT. While many may be looking forward to warmer temperatures and sunnier days, the Farmers’ Almanac forecast reveals the opposite.

“Mother Nature has been on a rampage” reports Peter Geiger, Philom. Editor, “leaving record amounts of snowfall in many northern areas, which the Farmers’ Almanac accurately predicted.”

The 2008 Farmers’ Almanac, published last August, predicted an extra chilly winter for the eastern half of the country, but somewhat mild west of the Mississippi River, and lots of snow for New England and the Great Lakes. The accuracy of that prediction was borne out by the heavier-than-normal snow that pounded, and still covers, most of these regions.

Looking ahead: Don’t forget the umbrellas!

Now, spring is finally on the way, and the snow will soon be replaced by showers. For most sections of the country, Farmers’ Almanac weather forecaster Caleb Weatherbee predicts a cold start to spring, including snow flurries across the Great Lakes and Midwest. Moving into April, multiple thunderstorms and squalls are predicted for most regions, continuing through May and early June. “Tornado alley may be very active …” warns the Farmers’ Almanac. You can get two months of the Farmers’ Almanac weather predictions at www.farmersalmanac.com

While the wet spring weather may not be good news for picnickers, it could be a boon for gardeners, especially in light of the extremely hot weather the Almanac is predicting for the upcoming summer. For more information about weather, astronomy, and the best days for gardening, fishing and more, pick up a copy of the 2008 Farmers’ Almanac or visit on the Web at www.farmersalmanac.com

About the Farmers’ Almanac:
The Farmers’ Almanac, which features an orange and green cover, has been published every year since 1818. Available at grocery and bookstores nationwide, it contains useful and interesting articles, as well as long-range weather predictions, gardening advice, recipes and more.

Editors Peter Geiger and Sandi Duncan are available for lively and informative interviews, either by phone or in person. Visit on the Web at www.farmersalmanac.com.