Spring in Tennessee has been warm, dry and early

Spring in Tennessee has been warm, dry and early.

Tennessee recorded some spring blooms two to three weeks early this year as of April 23, according to the National Phenology Network.

The state has also been warm. Nashville had its second-warmest March ever, and April is currently about 7 degrees above the 30-year average.

Caroline Eggers WPLN News

“Forget-me-not” flowers bloom on April 7, 2026.

At the same time, the state is in a widespread drought.

The majority of land had “severe drought” conditions this week, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, while more areas, including Nashville, moved into the “extreme drought” classification.

Courtesy U.S. Drought Monitor

The U.S. Drought Monitor showed 86% of Tennessee in severe drought the week of April 21, 2026.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasted in March that Nashville should recover in the coming months, while other parts of Middle Tennessee could be in for an extended drought.

Climate change made each of these conditions more likely.

The supercharged water cycle includes both drought risks and a higher chance for heavy downpours. Extra warmth could also translate to higher risks for thunderstorms and tornadoes this spring.