Currently in D.C. — September 20, 2023: Fall kicks off with a warm, sunny day

The weather, currently.

With fall arriving this weekend, summer is trying to have one final kick. Today we have lots of sun with highs of 80°F. We’ll also experience some humidity. I’m thinking about taking a stroll in the Mall with my favorite boba tea at hand. But there’s plenty of more outdoor activities to enjoy. That’s one of the blisses of living here! If you stay out too late, remember to bring something warm because the temperature will drop to 59°F.

This day got me thinking about William Shakespeare’s quote: “Summer’s lease hath all too short a date.” So, let’s make the most of it and send it off in style!

— Myriam Vidal Valero

What you need to know, currently.

There was a spectacular display of northern lights — aurora borealis — on Tuesday, caused by a direct hit from particles sent Earthward from a solar explosion.

We’re in the middle of a multi-year peak of activity on the sun, so northern lights should be more common than in previous years. And the best time to see them is during the fall and winter, when the temperatures aren’t yet too cold, and the nights are getting nice and long.

One of my favorite websites, spaceweather.com, will keep you up-to-date on upcoming chances to see the aurora.

— Eric Holthaus

What you can do, currently.

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One of my favorite organizations, Mutual Aid Disaster Relief, serves as a hub of mutual aid efforts focused on climate action in emergencies — like Hurricane season. Find mutual aid network near you and join, or donate to support networks in Florida:

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