Farmers’ Almanac 2026 / 2027 Winter Weather Forecast

2026 Winter Weather Outlook: Snow, Sleet, and Surprises

The winter of 2026–2027 may deliver sharp contrasts across the country. Some regions could face repeated storms, raw rain, and heavy, wet snow, while others experience milder stretches interrupted by quick cold snaps.

In other words, prepare for a winter of snow, sleet, and surprises.

Our 2026–2027 winter outlook was prepared by Caleb Weatherbee using the same core, proprietary weather formula the Farmers’ Almanac has relied upon since its founding in 1818. First developed by founding editor David Young and passed down from one Almanac forecaster to the next, the time-tested method considers recurring natural cycles, solar activity, lunar influences, and historical weather patterns. Today, those traditional calculations are enhanced—not replaced—by modern forecasting tools, including satellite observations, computer modeling, current meteorological data, historical analogs, and analysis of large-scale ocean and atmospheric patterns. Together, these old and new methods help Caleb develop a broad, long-range regional outlook intended to help readers plan ahead—while remembering that nature always has the final word.

A Wet and Stormy Southern Tier

El Niño is expected to remain an important influence through the heart of the season, favoring wetter-than-normal conditions across much of the southern United States.

An active storm track may extend from Southern California and the Desert Southwest through Texas, the Gulf Coast, and the Southeast. These areas should watch for frequent storm systems, muddy fields, and occasional surges of cold air.

When that colder air meets abundant moisture, some storms could produce sleet, freezing rain, or heavy, wet snow. The southern Rockies may fare especially well for mountain snowfall.

Quick Cold Snaps Across the North

Across much of the West, northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes, temperatures should average near normal overall. However, that does not mean winter will be mild.

Fast-moving clippers, sudden cold snaps, and brief snowy periods are likely, although milder breaks may frequently interrupt the wintry weather. Farther north, the Plains, Midwest, and Great Lakes could experience sudden snow squalls, blustery winds, and bursts of bitter cold.

The middle of the country may also see frequent swings between thawing and freezing, creating rapidly changing road and field conditions.

A Tricky Winter for the Northeast

The Northeast may face one of the season’s most complicated winter patterns.

Coastal communities could receive more rain or mixed precipitation, while inland areas may be hit by several rounds of heavy, wet snow—particularly during January and February.

Small shifts in storm tracks and temperatures could make the difference between rain, sleet, freezing rain, and accumulating snow. Residents should be prepared for forecasts to change quickly as storms approach.

A Changeable Season in the Northwest

The Pacific Northwest may experience a more changeable and somewhat less dependable snow season.

Meanwhile, the northern Plains and Upper Midwest could turn drier at times, especially when the southern storm track becomes dominant. Even so, brief but intense periods of cold, wind, and snow will remain possible.

Where Will the Most Precipitation Fall?

A very active southern storm track is expected to bring heavier-than-normal precipitation from California and the Southwest eastward through Texas, the Gulf Coast, and the Southeast.

A second storm path may guide weather systems along the Eastern Seaboard, bringing additional opportunities for rain, wintry mixes, and snow from the mid-Atlantic into New England.

Because temperatures may frequently hover near freezing, precipitation type will be especially difficult to predict. A slight change in temperature or storm direction could turn a cold rain into an icy mix—or transform a slushy snowfall into a significant winter storm.

The Bottom Line

Winter 2026–2027 may be defined by contrasts: an active and wet southern storm track, quick bursts of snow and cold across the North, and a particularly unpredictable mix of precipitation in the Northeast.

Keep the snow shovel, rain boots, and ice scraper close at hand. This winter, you may need all three.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has the Almanac forecast winter weather?

Since 1818, the same year of the Almanac’s founding. That makes it the longest-running long-range weather forecast in North America.

What is the formula?

A combination of sunspot cycles, lunar position, tidal pull, and historical pattern weighting. The exact details are not publicly published.

How accurate is the forecast?

The Almanac reports 80-85% accuracy on regional outlooks. Independent reviews put actual accuracy somewhat lower, but still meaningfully above chance.

Where can I see the current winter forecast?

On the Almanac’s long-range weather forecast page. The print edition is published each August.