We know the question on your mind, Lakelanders — when’s it going to get hot? Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect in our city for March, April, and May.

While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what spring will bring.

Reminder: The first day of spring is coming up on Friday, March 20.

Southern states across the country can expect a warmer spring. | Image via NOAA

🌡️ Temperature

Brace yourself to start using your A/C more, because there's a 40%-50% chance that Lakeland's average spring temperatures will be above normal.

Keep our area's current water shortage in mind this season, too. | Image via NOAA

🌨️ Precipitation

Will we see more or less rainfall than the average? NOAA says there's an equal chance it goes either way. However, it also predicts that current drought conditions will persist.

Pro tip: Don't forget Polk County's active burn ban put in place after last year's dry conditions.

Mild March

Temperatures in Lakeland typically reach the high-70s throughout March, and it's also the least humid month of the year. In other words, it's the perfect time for nice mornings on the porch. Don't forget: On Sunday, March 8, we'll "spring forward" and get an extra hour of daylight in the evenings.

April showers

So much for low humidity. April is when Lakeland typically begins to see more rain. Temperatures also tend to rise this month, with the average high moving up to ~83° and the average low to ~64°.

May brings the heat

Historically, May is when we really start to feel the heat here. Average highs this month get up to ~86°, and in the past, Lakeland's average relative humidity in May has been 73%. This month also sees the most amount of sunshine, with 10.6 hours per day.