April Expected to Warm Up Quickly

Groundhog Punxsutawney Phil didn't see his shadow in February, leading an entire nation to believe spring was soon to come.

Unfortunately, Northern Virginia saw more winter-like snowfall with cool temperatures in March and snow this past week.

But spring is a time of hope, right?

"We will really start to turn the corner in April. We'll be seeing a transition the first of April instead of in March like some areas," meteorologist Chris Strong with the National Weather Service (NWS) said. "It's a situation where you go from winter straight into summer."

Strong said Northern Virginia should expect to see highs in the 60s starting as early as Monday.

The average temperature in April in 2011 and 2012 was about 58 degrees, according to National Weather Service climate data. March this year has been a bit cooler than normal, causing the National Park Service to push the estimated Cherry Blossom peak bloom date into April.

The Farmer's Almanac predicts temperatures will be slightly higher than average and precipitation will be slightly lower than normal in April. 

Spring Means Thunderstorms, Tornadoes

Strong also said to prepare for unpredictable and severe weather situations that the region may face in the upcoming months such as thunderstorms and tornadoes.

"The type of weather we deal with in this region includes tornadoes, so that's one of the things we'll [NWS] keep an eye on," Strong said. "Have a way to get information or alerts on weather conditions so you'll be prepared. We usually know ahead of time, but the weather can change quickly."

According to the recently released NWS spring outlook, the country will experience a mixture of drought, flooding and warm weather throughout the season.

"Weather can turn on a dime, so it's important to stay tuned to the daily weather forecast. Spring weather, such as tornadoes and flash floods, develop quickly and require preparation and vigilance," said Laura Furgione, deputy director of NWS.

As for Punxsutawney Phil: He was recently let off the hook for his alleged treasonous acts when his handler, Bill Deeley, stepped forward to inform the media that the animal rightfully predicted six more weeks of winter back in February; Deeley just misinterpreted Punxsutawney's prediction, he said.