As summer begins to wind down and Halloween decorations start popping up here and there in neighborhoods across the nation, its time we take a look at what kind of weather we may see in the month of September ahead. Drawing from insights shared by Direct Weather, this month’s outlook promises a shift toward cooler, more autumnal conditions across much of the U.S. with notable precipitation opportunities in the West that could bring early snow to high elevations.
Stormy West Sets Up for Precipitation
Out West, the pattern leans stormy, particularly from the Rockies westward. Above-average precipitation is anticipated, though not in the form of massive systems. Instead, expect scattered opportunities for rain and potential September snow. The highest mountain tops in the Rockies and Cascades stand out as prime spots for early snowfall, especially toward the end of the month if cooler air surges in. While September snow isn’t unheard of in these regions, this year’s setup increases the likelihood which is awesome news for skiers and snowboarders anxious for an early winter.
Cooler East with Arctic Influences
Shifting eastward, September is shaping up more like October than a lingering August, especially in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Frequent cold shots are expected, driven by early Arctic air masses pushing southward—unusual for this time of year but already glimpsed in late August. Areas like the Ohio Valley, parts of the Midwest, and the Deep South may feel these cooler intrusions, leading to below-normal temperatures by month’s end.
In the south-central states, storminess could ramp up, potentially influenced by tropical systems originating from the Pacific. The tropics remain a wildcard, with threats possible along the Gulf Coast, Southeast, and even into the Mid-Atlantic or Northeast. However, dry conditions dominate the forecast for the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, adding an abnormal twist to the otherwise fall-like temps.
Plan Ahead for Outdoor Adventures
For those gearing up for fall activities, this forecast signals an early taste of cooler weather ideal for layering up on the trails. Keep an eye on high-elevation spots in the Rockies and Cascades for that first snow dusting as it could arrive sooner than expected.
Related: Winter 2025-2026 Forecast: Meteorologist Forecasts Chilly Storms Across the U.S.
