The National Park Service (NPS) announced that cherry blossom trees have reached the fifth stage, which is next to the last, and peak bloom is likely to happen by the end of this week.
The current “puffy white” stage is the time right before cherry blossom trees reach peak bloom.
The NPS is expecting many visits to the Tidal Basin by those who are hoping to enjoy the view of this beautiful sight of the trees. However, the Park Service has issued a warning regarding these visits and the ongoing outbreak of coronavirus.
Petals pushing through.
Trees at stage five – puffy white;
Peak bloom by week's end. #BloomWatch #Haiku pic.twitter.com/BOBJaFGMkV— National Mall NPS (@NationalMallNPS) March 16, 2020
“Although the park is not closed, we encourage all visitors, particularly the most vulnerable, including the elderly and people with underlying conditions, to make smart decisions and to follow CDC guidance to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. These measures include practicing social distancing; following routine precautions like washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, please stay home if you feel sick,” the NPS said in a statement.
The NPS had announced earlier this month that peak bloom was expected between March 27 and 30. The estimated date has now been updated as “between March 21 and 24.”
With peak bloom a few days away, we encourage those who still plan to visit the Tidal Basin (esp. the elderly and those with underlying conditions) to make smart decisions and follow CDC guidance to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases. pic.twitter.com/SjGuxDoqIH
— National Mall NPS (@NationalMallNPS) March 17, 2020
Peak bloom date is known as the day when 70 percent of the cherry blossoms are open. It changes every year depending on weather conditions. The most likely time is between the last week of March and the first week of April.