The spring equinox has arrived for those in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning both hemispheres receive an equal amount of sunlight. The equinox marks the start of spring and autumn, while solstices indicate summer and winter. Spring, which can occur on March 19, 20 or 21, brings warmer weather, budding plants, and longer daylight hours. However, the Southern Hemisphere prepares for shorter days as they head into autumn. The U.S. government predicts wet weather, which will alleviate drought conditions in western areas, and warmer temperatures than usual for the southern and eastern parts of America but chillier weather for the Great Basin and northern Plains.