CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - It is the last Friday of summer as the first day of fall is on Sunday.  The Autumnal Equinox officially starts at 8:43 a.m. on Sunday, September 22, 2024. In the 2024 fall outlook by NOAA, much of the country is expected to see above-average temperatures this season with potentially well above-average temperatures in New England.  When will it feel like fall in Massachusetts? Map shows forecast for next 3 months This is no surprise as the fall season continues to warm across the northern hemisphere and records show that even here in western Massachusetts is seeing big changes. According to Climate Central, an organization that analyzes, reports, and keeps global climate records, the fall season in western Massachusetts is warming fast.  Fall Temperatures Above Normal Since 1970, the average number of days with above-average temperatures in Springfield has risen by 13 days.  Average Fall Temperatures Increases The average fall temperature for Springfield has risen by 2.7 degrees since 1970. Temperatures are expected to continue to warm over the coming years.  7 Day Forecast Weather News Nice stretch of weather brings big crowds to The Big E What’s brewing in the Caribbean? Tropical depression could form next week, NHC says First day of fall begins on Sunday, what that means for temperatures in Massachusetts Locals enjoy last days of summer in western Massachusetts Chris Bouzakis is a meteorologist who has been a part of the 22News team since 2021. Follow Chris on X @ChrisBouzakis and view his bio to see more of his work.