Farmers’ Almanac predicts an old-fashioned, cold-and-snow winter for 2025-2026, with a repeated chill-snow-warm cycle across much of the country
Summary: The 209th edition of the Farmers’ Almanac foresees a winter of recurring cold snaps and snowfall, especially in the Northern Plains, New England, and the Midwest, with milder and wetter conditions in parts of the Southeast and Southwest. The forecast also notes last year’s accuracy in parts of the country and points to a possible La Niña winter, which could shape regional patterns. The report blends traditional forecasting methods with an eye on weather extremes, offering readers practical tips for preparation and a hopeful outlook for snow-loving and farming communities alike.
The Farmers’ Almanac has released its 209th edition, signaling a winter season that could feel like a throwback to earlier decades: “Chill, Snow, Repeat.” While the cold may not grip the South as intensely as last year, much of the Northern Plains to New England is expected to see prolonged cold and snow, with a rhythm of cool spells followed by brief warmups before the pattern repeats. The editor notes that the winter may begin in earnest in late fall, with very cold conditions and some early snow in northern regions, and that the coldest stretches may linger into March and even April in areas like New England, the Great Lakes, and parts of the northern Plains.
Key takeaways from the regional forecasts
– Northeast and New England: Expect frequent cold snaps and significant snow, especially in the early and mid-winter. A notable cold period around mid-January is anticipated, with heavier snow events projected for Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and southern New York. February could bring more cold and snow to northern New England, followed by a milder march that may still be chilly and windy.
– Midwest and Great Lakes: A big cold spell around New Year’s, with heavy snow possible in the Great Lakes region. February is forecast to bring a major snowstorm, followed by a transition to very cold conditions into March, bringing snow across the region and into parts of Kentucky and Ohio.
– Northwest: Cold and wet conditions are on tap, with mountains receiving ample snow—a boon for skiers as precipitation supports snowpack. Coastal Washington could see moist, rainy periods in mid-winter and into early spring.
– North Central states (including Colorado, the Plains, and the Dakotas): Expected to deliver a classic winter with very cold and snowy conditions. Snowstorms are forecast for mid-February in the central Plains and mid-March across the region, with Easter potentially bringing light snow to the Dakotas and Minnesota.
– Southeast and Florida: Forecasts point to a milder overall winter but with wet conditions. January could bring cold spells to the mountains of West Virginia and Virginia, and February is likely to be very wet in many areas before a milder late February into March.
– South Central and Texas: Cold and wet conditions are anticipated, with a mix of icy rain and snow possible in northern Texas in mid-January, and again in mid-February and mid-March. March should bring a gradual warming in many spots.
– California and Southwest: Expected to be fair overall but quite chilly, with wet conditions possible that could help curb wildfire risk from last year. Rain is anticipated ahead of a potentially windy end of January.
Forecasts are built around a traditional framework that the Almanac says adapts to changing conditions and celestial patterns. While the Almanac stresses a proprietary method linking celestial events to weather, scientists often debate its precision compared with meteorological models. The Farmers’ Almanac notes its basis and invites readers to view it as a guide that can complement science-based forecasts, planting tips, and seasonal calendars.
What last winter taught and the broader climate context
The Almanac highlights its accuracy in areas where last winter’s forecast aligned with actual events, noting a mild winter in Texas and the Southern Plains contrasted with a notably cold spell across the Northern Plains and Great Lakes. It also pointed to a very cold spell at the end of January, while acknowledging that La Niña conditions reduced the expected wet weather in many regions.
In the broader climate context, NOAA data show that February’s results contributed to the contiguous U.S. finishing as the third-warmest winter on record, with an average temperature around 34.1 degrees Fahrenheit—about 1.9 degrees above the long-term average. Looking ahead, the Climate Prediction Center has signaled the possibility of La Niña patterns returning, which could favor cooler, snowier conditions in the Northwest and drier, warmer conditions in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.
What this could mean for readers and communities
– For farmers and ranchers: A winter with extended cold and reliable snowpack in some regions can replenish soil moisture and water supplies, but heavy snow and cold spells also demand preparedness for livestock, shelter, feed, and equipment readiness.
– For homeowners and travelers: Expect a mix of snow events and cold spells that require timely winter-weather planning, including de-icing supplies, vehicle readiness, and cautious travel in peak storm periods.
– For outdoor enthusiasts and skiers: The Northwest and northern-tier regions may offer excellent snow conditions, while the Northeast and Midwest could provide frequent opportunities for winter recreation during the heart of the season.
Practical tips for this winter
– Stock up on de-icers, winter tires or chains where appropriate, and inspect heating systems early in the season.
– Prepare for power outages by having backup heat sources, flashlight batteries, and non-perishable foods.
– Monitor local forecasts for anticipated snowfalls, especially during mid-winter mid-January to March, when several regional systems show a higher likelihood of heavy snow.
– For rural areas, ensure livestock shelters are prepared for cold spells and that water sources remain unfrozen.
A hopeful angle
This winter pattern offers a chance for abundant snowfall in the mountains and northern regions, which can support water resources and boost winter tourism and recreation. While some regions may face challenging cold snaps and storms, the prospect of a traditional, snow-rich winter brings a sense of seasonal renewal for communities, farmers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Summary note
The Almanac’s 209th edition invites readers to brace for a winter cycle of cold and snow that could feel both familiar and dynamic, with regional variations shaped by evolving climate factors. Whether you view it as a cultural guide or a seasonal weather predictor, the forecast emphasizes preparedness, resilience, and a sense of seasonal rhythm as winter approaches.
Additional context and commentary
– The forecast emphasizes the idea of an “old-fashioned winter” that alternates between cold periods and snow events, which could have various implications for heating demand, road maintenance, and agricultural planning.
– While the Almanac remains a cultural staple, it’s important to balance its insights with real-time meteorological data from scientific agencies for critical decisions.
– With La Niña potential re-emerging, readers in different regions should pay attention to regional updates, as the phase can influence snowfall and precipitation patterns in distinct ways.
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