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The Longest Night and Winter Solstice are almost here. |
Details about the stars: The Latin phrase "solstitium" (meaning "Sun stands still") describes how the Sun appears to stand motionless at the solstice before seemingly reversing course and moving across the sky. The Sun is at its lowest point in the sky at noon on this particular day. With this event, astronomical winter officially begins.
The --- What gives it the nickname "Longest Night"? The Sun remains below the horizon for the longest duration during the night of the Winter Solstice, making it the longest night of the year. Following this night, the length of daylight progressively increases, signifying the arrival of spring and the return of light.
The winter solstice approaches with the year's end. Every day is getting a few seconds shorter, and this Saturday will be the shortest day of the year. The fall season ends and winter officially begins on the winter solstice. What to know about the approaching solstice is provided here. When is 2024's winter solstice? The winter solstice occurs at 3:19 a.m. CT on Saturday, December 21.
What time does winter start? Saturday, December 21, marks the start of winter, which finishes on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
What day of the year is the shortest?
According to the Farmer's Almanac, December 21, 2024, is also the Northern Hemisphere's shortest day and longest night of the year.
What makes an equinox different from a solstice? Throughout the year, there are two equinoxes and two solstices. June and December mark the solstice, whereas March and September mark the equinox. The farthest north or south from the equator is where the sun is located in the sky on the solstice. Due to the sun's light peaking high or low in the sky, this is when we experience the longest and shortest days of the year. Day and darkness are equal on the equinox because the sun's light is distributed equally north and south.
This winter, will there be snow in Memphis? With warmer temperatures predicted for our region, Memphis may not receive much snow this year, even if areas of Tennessee have seen snow. Carol Connare, editor-in-chief of the Farmers Almanac, said that much of the United States will experience higher temperatures and snowfall this winter. The season's high heating expenses shouldn't be as severe, even if most slopes will still see abundant of snow and cold temperatures. We anticipate a mild, uneventful winter, which could be a nice change of pace given the extremes of the past several years.
What can we expect from Memphis' winter weather? According to the winter weather projection from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Memphis should anticipate a little warmer than normal winter through December 2024 and January and February of 2025. The cause of this is La Niña conditions.
Memphis can anticipate milder temperatures and less precipitation during La Niña conditions.
Cultural and Historical Importance
1. Ancient Festivities: A time of renewal and rebirth, the Winter Solstice was celebrated in many cultures. The Norse held Yule feasts, for instance, and the ancient Romans celebrated Saturnalia.
2. Symbols: A common symbol of the solstice is the victory of light over darkness. New beginnings, hope, and introspection are themes that are linked to it.
Modern Observances:
People still honor this day through festivals, rituals, and quiet reflection.
In some traditions, candles, bonfires, or other light sources are used to symbolize the returning Sun.
2024 Astronomical Perspective In 2024, Saturday, December 21 at 4:20 a.m. UTC will mark the Northern Hemisphere's Winter Solstice. The time may change a little based on where you are. The --- Introspection and Spirituality The Longest Night is often used as a time for introspection, thankfulness, and future planning. Now is the time to accept the emerging light and appreciate the darkness, realizing its place in the natural cycle of life.
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