Early Cherry Blossom Bloom Transforms Trần Hưng Đạo Street Into Pink Paradise

## Unseasonable Weather Triggers Early Bloom

Đà Lạt's iconic cherry blossom trees along Trần Hưng Đạo street have bloomed nearly three weeks ahead of schedule, creating an unexpected spectacle that has drawn thousands of visitors since late January. The early flowering, attributed to unusual temperature fluctuations this winter, has transformed the street into a sea of delicate pink petals.

Nguyễn Thị Mai Lan, a horticulturist with the Đà Lạt Institute of Agricultural Sciences, explained that nighttime temperatures dropping to 9-11°C in mid-January, followed by warmer days, likely triggered the premature bloom. "Cherry trees respond to temperature signals," she said. "This year's weather pattern mimicked late February conditions, confusing the trees' natural cycle."

## Crowds Flock to Capture the Moment

By the weekend of February 1st, Trần Hưng Đạo street was packed with both domestic and international tourists, many arriving from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi specifically to photograph the blossoms. Local authorities estimated over 15,000 visitors descended on the area between Friday evening and Sunday afternoon.

Phạm Văn Tuấn, who operates a coffee shop near the intersection with Hồ Xuân Hương, reported a 40% increase in customers. "People are buying coffee just to sit and enjoy the view," he said. "Some customers stay for hours, taking photos. It's been wonderful for business."

The city's tourism department has deployed additional staff to manage traffic and maintain order along the popular photo spots. Temporary barriers have been installed to protect the trees from damage, as eager photographers have occasionally climbed branches or shaken trees to create "petal showers" for social media content.

## Brief Window of Opportunity

Experts warn that the blooming period may be shorter than usual due to the early timing. Lê Hoàng Minh, director of Đà Lạt's Parks and Gardens Department, advised visitors to come soon. "Typically, cherry blossoms last two to three weeks, but with warmer weather expected next week, these flowers may fall within 10 days," he cautioned.

The early bloom has sparked discussions about climate patterns affecting Đà Lạt's famous flower cultivation industry. While the immediate tourism boost is welcome, agricultural experts are monitoring whether shifting weather patterns could impact the city's carefully timed flower festivals and agricultural calendar.

For now, residents and visitors alike are embracing the unexpected gift, with many viewing it as an early celebration of Tết, which falls later this month.