Key Takeaways
The 2025–2026 winter is expected to be long, cold, and snowy, with an early start and lingering chill into spring across the U.S.
Forecasts include heavy storms in the Northeast and Midwest, wet and chilly conditions in the Northwest, and cold snaps across the South.
The Almanac encourages people to plan spring gardening around these wintry conditions.
The Farmers’ Almanac came out with its 2025–2026 winter weather predictions, and according to what editor Sandi Duncan told USA Today, we’re in for a season that feels like “an old-fashioned winter.” That means cold, snow, a bit of a warm-up—and then, yes, more cold and snow.
While last year’s record-breaking cold may not return in full force, the months ahead promise their fair share of frosty mornings, swirling snowflakes, and cozy nights in. Here’s what’s coming for your region and how to prepare.
A Winter to Remember
If the Almanac’s 209th edition is correct, winter could start early in some parts of the country—even before the December 21 solstice.
“Cold winter temperatures could sneak in a little bit early in many of the northern sections,” Duncan said. And once it starts, it may linger well into spring, especially in New England, the Great Lakes, and the Northern Plains.
The biggest chill will hit from the Northern Plains to New England, with a notable cold snap in mid-January and another in mid-February.
Related: The Farmer’s Almanac Fall 2025 Forecast Is Here—See What’s Coming to Your Area
What to Expect in Your Region
Here’s a peek at the Farmers’ Almanac forecast for different parts of the country:
Northeast and New England: frequent snowstorms, especially in January and February, and coldest conditions mid-month.
Midwest and Great Lakes: snowy New Year’s, big storm in early February, and brisk winds into March.
Northwest: chilly, wet weather; excellent snowpack for skiing in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
North Central States: a “classic winter wonderland” with snow into March and even Easter in some areas.
Southeast: average temperatures, but wet periods; occasional snow in the Appalachians.
Texas and Southern Plains: wetter than average with periodic cold snaps; icy rain possible.
Southwest: near-average temperatures with wetter-than-normal conditions.
Nature’s Rhythms Still Guide the Forecast
The Farmers’ Almanac has been publishing its predictions since 1818, using a proprietary formula based on a mix of celestial events, meteorological patterns, and solar activity. While not everyone in the scientific community takes these long-range forecasts as gospel, they remain a beloved tradition for gardeners, farmers, and weather-watchers alike.
As Duncan puts it, “It’s going to cool down, it’s going to snow, then it might warm up a little, then it’s going to repeat itself again.”
How to Make the Most of the Season
Whether you’re a snow lover or more of a fireside tea drinker, this winter’s “chill, snow, repeat” rhythm offers plenty of opportunities to embrace the season:
Gardeners: Start planning your spring planting with the Almanac’s tips in mind.
Homebodies: Refresh your winter decor with cozy blankets, layered lighting, and hot cocoa stations.
Adventurers: Book ski trips early in the Northwest and North Central regions.
Planners: Stock up on warm layers and pantry staples before the storms roll in.
One Last Flake
While the Almanac admits that “nature throws us a curveball from time to time,” the joy is in the anticipation—knowing you might wake to a snow covered world outside your window. Whether it’s building snowmen, bundling up for a brisk walk, or simply watching the snow fall from indoors, winter 2025–2026 looks set to deliver its own kind of magic.
Or as Duncan hints, this year might be “less brutal than last, but still a wild ride.”
Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens
