Today, people around the world rely on television meteorologists and websites to predict the weather in 7-10 days. We can even take a look at climate prediction organizations like NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center to figure out what the general weather might be like in several months. But humans couldn’t always rely on sources like those mentioned above to tell them the forecast. According to the Famers’ Almanac, these 15 signs hint toward a cold and snowy incoming winter.
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, many of us start to wonder what the upcoming winter has in store. For centuries, farmers, homesteaders, and weather enthusiasts have turned to time-tested signs in nature to predict the severity of the season ahead. From animal behavior to plant patterns, these subtle clues offer a glimpse into the rhythms of the natural world. The Farmers’ Almanac, a trusted source for weather lore and long-range forecasts, compiles these observations into practical insights for those preparing for winter’s chill. Below, we explore 15 fascinating signs that may signal a cold and snowy winter is on the way.
15 Signs Of A Cold and Snowy Winter According to the Farmers’ Almanac
- Onion Skins: According to the Farmers’ Almanac, thicker-than-usual onion skins can be a sign of cold incoming weather.
- Geese and Ducks Heading South Early: If you notice that ducks, geese, and other feathered friends are heading south earlier than normal, that could be a sign that cold temperatures are on their way.
- Early Monarch Migration: Similarly, when the monarchs begin to migrate, they could be trying to outrun a cold front.
- Cows: If cows seem to be growing extra insulation, they might be prepping for an extra cold winter.
- Raccoons: If you’re seeing fluffier-than-normal raccoons, they could be getting ready for colder winter temperatures.
- Mice: If mice are starting to chew into your home, they’re probably attempting to get away from the incoming cold temperatures.
- Cricket on the Hearth: Crickets appearing on the hearth is apparently a sign of cold weather to come.
- Spiders: If spiders are making extra-thick webs or attempting to get inside, they might be preparing for a colder winter.
- Pigs: According to the Farmers’ Almanac, when pigs can be seen collecting sticks, there’s a chance they’re building up a warm nest for winter.
- Ants: If ants are spotted marching in line and working harder than normal, they might be preparing for a cold and long winter.
- Acorns: If more acorns than normal seem to be raining from trees, the plants could be storing extra energy for a tough winter.
- Hornet’s Nest: According to some lore, hornets will build their nests based on how high the snow will drift during the winter.
- The Wooly Bear Caterpillar: Based solely on lore, the width of a wooly bear caterpillar’s orange band can indicate the severity of winter. The thinner the band, the more intense the winter.
- Squirrels: According to the Farmers’ Almanac, squirrels that seem to be frantically gathering and storing nuts are potentially prepping for a hard winter.
- Rings around the Moon: The appearance of a lot of halos around the sun or moon could indicate high moisture in the air and might point toward incoming snow.
