As winter approaches, the Old Farmer’s Almanac has dropped its 2025-2026 winter forecast, and it’s a mixed bag of mostly mild weather with a few chilly and snowy surprises. The big takeaway? Most of the U.S. is in for a typical or slightly milder winter, but certain regions should keep their snow shovels handy for some wild weather pockets.
The Big Picture: Mild with some Chill
Old Farmers’ Almanac Editor Carol Connare sums it up: “Don’t lose track of your snow shovels and umbrellas.” While much of the country can expect near-normal to slightly milder temperatures, the forecast flips colder-than-average in the Appalachians, Southeast, Florida, and Ohio Valley. So, if you’re in those areas, don’t pack away the heavy coats.
Regional Breakdown: Where’s the Snow and Cold?
Here’s how the winter is shaping up across the continental U.S., based on the Almanac’s predictions:
- Snowfall: Snow lovers, brace yourselves—most areas are forecasted to get near or below-normal snowfall. But there’s hope for powder hounds in specific zones. The Carolinas, southern Appalachians, eastern Ohio Valley, southern Rockies, and eastern Desert Southwest are expected to see greater-than-average snow. Resorts in the southern Rockies, like those in New Mexico or southern Colorado, could be in for a solid season if the forecast holds.
- Temperatures: Most of the country will see near-normal to slightly milder temps, making for a relatively easy winter in many spots. However, colder-than-average conditions are expected to grip the Appalachians, Southeast, Florida, and Ohio Valley. Skiers and snowboarders in these regions might want to keep an eye on local resorts for potential cold snaps that could bring prime conditions.
- Precipitation: It’s looking drier than usual for much of the U.S., with extended dry spells likely. That said, Florida, the Intermountain region, and the eastern Desert Southwest could see above-average precipitation, which might translate to some wet storms or snow in higher elevations.
What This Means for Skiers nad Snowboarders
For skiers and snowboarders, the Old Farmer’s Almanac forecast suggests a tale of two winters. If you’re chasing powder in the southern Appalachians or southern Rockies, you might score some epic days, especially with the predicted above-average snowfall in those regions. Meanwhile, the drier and milder conditions elsewhere might mean more groomer days than deep powder sessions for much of the West and Northeast.
