Where can I see DC's cherry blossoms? What to know as they bloom.

Around the National Mall in Washington, DC this week, cherry blossoms are the main attraction as they near the point of full flower known as "peak bloom."

In spite of the bitter winter chill and snow earlier in March, the legendary blooms are quickly unfurling after temperatures hit a high of 78 degrees over the weekend.

Six stages define the blossom process, from green buds through puffy white flowers to peak bloom. The National Park Service defines peak bloom as the day when 70% of the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

"We're getting so close," the National Mall, part of the National Park Service, posted on X on the morning of March 25 as it keeps the nation updated on each stage of the blossoms. "At least a third of the Yoshino cherry trees are still at Stage 5: Puffy White this morning, but as the sun rises and the temperature increases, we could hit Peak Bloom soon."

Peak bloom is expected by Thursday, March 26, Mike Litterst, communications chief for the National Mall and Memorial Parks, told USA TODAY.