When is the first day of winter in 2022? What to know about the winter solstice ❄️

We can all agree that winter begins in December, but if you're looking for an official start date, it depends on whom you ask.

Meteorological winter starts Dec. 1, but most people go by the astronomical calendar, which points to Dec. 21, the winter solstice, as the official start of the season.

Things to do this winter: When does Perfect North Slopes open for the season? We have a date

Snow and chilly temperatures kicked off earlier this month, and stormy winter weather is expected to continue nationwide throughout the season, according to the Farmer's Almanac. Here's everything you need to know about the start of winter.

When is the first day of winter 2022?

The astronomical first day of winter in the Northern Hemisphere is Dec. 21, 2022, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. It's marked by the winter solstice and is also the shortest day of the year.

The meteorological start of winter is Dec. 1.

What's the difference between astronomical and meteorological start dates?

The astronomical start date of a season is based on the position of the sun in relation to the Earth, whereas the meteorological start date is based on our 12-month calendar and the annual temperature cycle, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.

When is the winter solstice 2022?

The winter solstice occurs on Dec. 21, 2022, at 4:48 p.m.

What is the winter solstice?

The winter solstice occurs each year on Dec. 21 or 22 in the Northern Hemisphere, and on June 20 or 21 in the Southern Hemisphere. It's the shortest day of the year, or the day with the fewest hours of sunlight.

After the winter solstice, days begin to grow longer with more hours of sunlight, until we reach the summer solstice, which is the astronomical start of summer and the longest day of the year.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: When is winter solstice? First day of winter in 2022