North America — In terms of snowfall, it was a so-so winter for the North American ski industry. Some ski resorts are hoping for more of the white stuff next time, while others are trying to maintain the momentum. For the ski industry, the chance of a repeat weather pattern is increasing.
This week, OpenSnow released a video detailing the potential weather patterns that could emerge during the 2025-26 season. The video examines the differences between these weather patterns and the factors that influence their development.
Over the past few months, scientists have predicted that a Neutral (La Nada) winter would be coming. This is due to us currently being back in a Neutral pattern. However, NOAA now thinks the odds are increasing for a weak La Niña. These possibilities follow a weak La Niña that showed up during the 2024-25 season. An El Niño winter, which would favor the Southwest, is not expected for the 2025-26 season. Ultimately, my one takeaway from all this analysis is that snow is expected during the 2025-26 season.
A weak La Niña tends to favor the Sierras, Central Rockies, Great Lakes, and Northeast. Meanwhile, a neutral pattern favors the Northern and Eastern Rockies, as well as Northern New England.
OpenSnow is planning to release its first official 2025-26 forecast in August. For more information about the 2025-26 possibilities, check out OpenSnow’s video below.
Image/Video Credits: OpenSnow, NOAA
