The Farmers’ Almanac has released its long range winter weather forecast for the 2026-2027 season, predicting a winter marked by major regional differences across the United States. Their forecast calls for an active southern storm track, quick bursts of snow and cold across northern areas, and a complicated mix of rain, sleet, ice, and snow in the Northeast.
The seasonal outlook was developed using the publication’s traditional forecasting formula that dates back to its founding in 1818. The method combines historical weather patterns, solar activity, lunar influences, and natural cycles with modern forecasting tools and meteorological data.
Southern United States Could See Active Storm Track
The southern tier of the country may experience one of the wetter patterns of the winter season. The Farmers’ Almanac expects El Niño to remain an important influence, helping support increased storm activity from Southern California and the Desert Southwest through Texas, the Gulf Coast, and the Southeast.
Frequent storms could bring periods of heavy rain, muddy conditions, and occasional blasts of colder air. When moisture combines with colder temperatures, some areas could see episodes of sleet, freezing rain, or heavy wet snow. The southern Rockies are highlighted as a region that could benefit from increased mountain snowfall, potentially providing favorable conditions for winter recreation.
Northern States Face Fast Weather Changes
Across the West, northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes, temperatures are expected to average near normal overall. That does not mean a quiet winter season, though.
These regions could experience quick-moving snow systems, sudden cold snaps, strong winds, and brief periods of bitter temperatures. The central United States may also see frequent shifts between mild conditions and freezing weather, creating rapidly changing travel and outdoor conditions.
Northeast Forecast Calls for Uncertainty
The Northeast is looking at one of the most difficult winter patterns to predict. Coastal communities may see more rain and mixed precipitation, while inland locations could receive multiple rounds of heavy, wet snow, especially during January and February.
Small changes in storm paths and temperatures may determine whether a system produces rain, sleet, freezing rain, or accumulating snow. Residents may need to prepare for rapidly changing forecasts throughout the season.
Northwest Could Experience a Mixed Winter
The Pacific Northwest is expected to see a more variable winter pattern, with snowfall conditions that may be less consistent. Meanwhile, portions of the northern Plains and Upper Midwest could become drier at times as storms focus farther south.
The Farmers’ Almanac says winter 2026-2027 will likely be defined by contrasts, with storms, cold outbreaks, and changing precipitation types affecting different regions in different ways. They recommend keeping winter gear ready, including snow shovels, rain boots, and ice scrapers, with the season bringing lots of surprises.
