Winter could bring a surprise twist across the U.S., with one state facing an unusually cold and wet season.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its 2025–2026 winter forecast, covering all 18 regions of the U.S. and Canada. Overall, the outlook points to near-normal to slightly warmer conditions for much of the country, though several regions will face surprises.
“Most areas will experience near-normal to slightly milder temperatures, but from the Appalachians south through the Southeast and Florida, and westward across the Ohio Valley, we’re predicting a colder-than-normal winter,” said Almanac editor Carole Connare per the Sun.
Regional Forecasts
- Pacific Northwest: Conditions will vary sharply. West of the Cascades, Oregon and Washington are expected to see a warmer, wetter season with steady rain and long stretches of gray days replacing the usual snowpack. East of the mountains, the Intermountain region will trend mild and wet.
- Southeast, Ohio Valley & Florida: From the Appalachians through the Southeast and into Florida, colder-than-normal weather is expected. Florida is the biggest surprise, with predictions of a rare “cold and wet” winter.
- Northern States: Snowfall should be lighter than usual, though heavier bursts are likely in late January, early February, and late March.
- Snow-Prone Zones: Heavier snow totals are forecast for the Carolinas, southern Appalachians, eastern Ohio Valley, southern Rockies, and eastern Desert Southwest.
Precipitation Trends
Most of the nation will see drier-than-average conditions, with stretches of extended dryness. Exceptions include Florida, the Intermountain region, and the eastern Desert Southwest, which may be wetter than normal.
Key Takeaway
The Almanac emphasized that “mild” does not mean snow-free, warning Americans to keep their winter gear handy despite the overall warmer outlook.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac is the oldest continuously published periodical in North America, first released in 1792 by Robert B. Thomas in Massachusetts. It was created as a practical guide for farmers and households, combining long-range weather forecasts with advice on farming, gardening, astronomy, and natural living.
What made the Almanac unique was its use of a secret forecasting formula, said to factor in solar activity, weather patterns, and historical data. Though modern meteorology has since advanced, the Almanac still uses its traditional formula, claiming around 80% accuracy.
Beyond weather, the publication includes planting charts, astronomical data, recipes, household tips, folklore, and humor, making it both a practical tool and a cultural tradition.
