Experts say abnormally warm winter weather is making bluebonnets and other wildflowers come early this year.[/caption]Central Texas families may start heading out into the wildflower fields to get their yearly photos a little early, as experts predict spring—and the bluebonnets that come with it—is fast approaching.
“Wildflower season is taking off faster than you expect," said Andrea DeLong-Amaya, director of horticulture at the The University of Texas at Austin's Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
She said wildflowers will be blooming earlier this year thanks to the ample fall and winter rains the area received, and because of warmer-than-usual weather in February.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's three-month forecast predicts warmer than average weather for Central Texas, but cold fronts and freezes can still occur, which could cause damage to the bluebonnets that have already bloomed.
Lower Colorado River Authority Chief Meteorologist Bob Rose said Tuesday spring is expected to come close to 20 days earlier than normal in parts of Texas Hill Country and the southeastern United States.
Austinites saw the 8th warmest January on record, and February is predicted to be the warmest on record, according to LCRA—perfect weather for spotting those little blue flowers easily on the sides of highways around Central Texas.
The Austin Convention & Visitor's Bureau—the city's marketing entity—And Realty Austin say these areas are among the best to spot the state flower:
Are we missing a great spot to see bluebonnets? Let us know in the comments.
