A detailed, artistic map of North America with swirling snow over the northern states and a mix of rain and sun in the south, labeled "Winter 2025-2026 Forecast," dynamic weather graphics, professional and clear.
Winter Weather Forecast 2025-2026
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released its winter outlook for December 2025 through February 2026, indicating that La Niña conditions are expected to influence the season. La Niña, characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, typically affects global weather patterns.
Temperature Outlook
- Northern United States: Anticipated to experience cooler-than-average temperatures
- Southern United States: Likely to encounter warmer-than-average conditions
- Pacific Northwest and Northern California: Expected to receive above-normal precipitation
- Southern United States: Forecasted to have drier-than-average conditions
- Temperature: Below average temperatures expected
- Precipitation: Near to above average snowfall likely
- Notable Events: Potential for significant winter storms and coastal flooding
- Temperature: Colder than normal conditions anticipated
- Precipitation: Above average snowfall in northern regions
- Lake Effect: Enhanced lake-effect snow possible around Great Lakes
- Temperature: Variable with cooler conditions in north, warmer in south
- Precipitation: Above average in Pacific Northwest, below average in Southwest
- Snowpack: Good snowpack development expected in Sierra Nevada and Cascades
- Temperature: Warmer than average throughout the season
- Precipitation: Drier conditions expected across most areas
- Severe Weather: Reduced risk of winter precipitation events
- Temperature: Below average at higher elevations
- Precipitation: Above average snowfall in northern Rockies
- Ski Conditions: Favorable early season conditions expected
- Enhanced storm track across the northern tier
- Drier conditions in the southern states
- Increased temperature contrasts between north and south
- Winterize pipes and insulation
- Check heating systems
- Stock emergency supplies
- Prepare for potential power outages
- Monitor road conditions regularly
- Keep winter emergency kits in vehicles
- Plan for potential flight delays in northern regions
- Check weather forecasts before long trips
- Dress in layers for cold weather
- Be aware of frostbite and hypothermia risks
- Monitor vulnerable populations
- Maintain adequate medication supplies
Precipitation Outlook
These patterns align with typical La Niña influences, which often bring wetter conditions to the northern regions and drier conditions to the south.
The Farmers' Almanac also predicts an early, frigid, and snowy winter for much of the U.S., with two major Arctic blasts anticipated in mid-January and mid-February. However, it's important to note that long-range forecasts can have varying degrees of accuracy, and conditions may change as the season approaches.
Regional Breakdown
Northeast
Midwest
West Coast
Southern States
Mountain West
Key Factors Influencing the Forecast
La Niña Pattern
The ongoing La Niña event is the primary driver of this winter's weather patterns. This climate phenomenon typically results in:
Arctic Oscillation
The state of the Arctic Oscillation will play a crucial role in determining the frequency and intensity of cold air outbreaks. A negative phase could lead to more frequent and severe cold spells across the eastern United States.
Pacific Decadal Oscillation
Current conditions in the Pacific Ocean suggest patterns that may reinforce the La Niña influence on North American weather.
Preparation Recommendations
Home and Property
Travel Considerations
Health and Safety
Long-Term Climate Context
This winter forecast occurs within the broader context of climate change, which has been contributing to overall warming trends while potentially increasing the intensity of certain winter weather events. The interplay between long-term warming and natural climate variability makes each winter season unique and challenging to predict with complete accuracy.
Sources and Reliability
The forecast combines data from multiple sources including NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, National Weather Service, and historical climate patterns. While these outlooks provide valuable guidance, actual weather conditions may vary, and short-term forecasts should be consulted for specific planning purposes.
The prompt for this was: winter weather forecast
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