The Winter Weather Forecast Is in and the Outlook in Some States Surprised Us

Are you curious to know about the 2025-2026 winter predictions for the United States? Will our mountains, lakes, and trees be covered in a blanket of snow? It sure appears that way. After a wetter winter last year, there will be more snowy, colder, and even wetter weather conditions this year. According to the Farmers’ Almanac's predictions, the pattern won't be uniform – some areas will have more dry, cold weather while others will receive heavier precipitation. So, you'd better bundle up.

The last winter prediction hinged on more El Niño, especially in the Pacific Coast of South America. However, this season it will be colder with oscillating storm patterns. So instead of a steady mild pattern, expect more snowstorms.

Winter 2025–2026 Forecast: What Americans Can Expect This Season

The key areas to receive ice, snow, sleet, and cold weather conditions include New England, the Northern Plains, and the Midwest. If you are outside these zones, expect unusual wetter, wintry conditions.

December Kicks Off With Stormy Weather and Sharp Cold Snaps

Farmers' Almanac predicts that for 2025-2026, the meteorological winter begins on December 1, with the month forecasted to start with stormy and cold snaps. The forecast calls for blizzard conditions, with blowing snow, across northern New England and the Northern Plains. However, the Northern Central will receive frequent storms. On the other hand, the Southern areas should expect more rain, mild snow, and mixed precipitation.

Great Lakes and Midwest Brace for a Bitter, Snowy Winter

Below-average temperatures and a mix of snowstorms, sleet, ice, and rain are forecast for much of the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Midwest. Also, Central and Northern New England should expect a classic winter wonderland, especially in January and February.

Pacific Northwest and California Set for a Wet, Snow-Packed Season

The Pacific Northwest is expected to experience a snowy, wet winter, with mountain snow and valley rain. Above-average precipitation might direct a subtropical jet stream into California, bringing heavy rain and some snow to lower elevations across the American Southwest.

Rockies and Great Plains Prepare for Major Cold Outbreaks

In the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains, winter will bring plenty of cold temperatures and occasional major storms that bring widespread rain and snow. There are two major outbreaks expected in mid-January and mid-February – during this period, expect more rain in the plains and more snow in the mountains.

Southern Plains and Texas Could See a Major Mid-January Cold Snap

A wetter-than-average winter is forecast in the Southern Plains and Texas, with the potential for a significant cold snap in mid-January. While these areas will receive light snow, there's a chance for a significant winter storm.

Southeast and Florida Expect a Wetter-Than-Normal Winter

In the Southeast and Florida, a wetter-than-usual winter is expected with average winter temperatures overall and a few frosts.

I-95 Corridor Residents Should Prepare for Frequent Wintry Mixes

If you live along the I-95 corridor from Boston in the north to Washington, D.C., you will experience plenty of wintry precipitation, with a mix of rain, sleet, and snowstorms to battle.

March 2026 Outlook: More Storms and Dramatic Temperature Swings

Winter weather will continue through March 2026, with wild temperature swings and potential stormy conditions nationwide at the end of the month.

How Will You Spend This Winter – Bundled Up or Out Exploring?

So, tell us, will you be bundling up to explore the great outdoors this winter, or do you prefer to cozy up by a roaring fire with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book? Check out this read about how traveling helps me get through winter blues.

Are you planning an outdoor adventure for this winter? At Only In Your State, we have an Itinerary Planner you can use to map out your next blast of cold or stormy weather destination with ease. And read some more about the best winter destinations in the U.S.