As summer heat continues across much of the country, many people are already wondering what kind of winter is ahead. The Farmers’ Almanac has released its 2026-2027 winter weather forecast, offering a comprehensive look at what temperatures, storms, and precipitation could look like across the United States. From California to the Northeast, the publication provides a detailed outlook for the upcoming season.
The Farmers’ Almanac predicts a winter of sharp contrasts for 2026-2027, with varied conditions across the country. According to the publication, “Snow, sleet, and surprises” could define the winter season. The forecast calls for a mix of conditions, with some areas seeing frequent storms and increased precipitation while others experience milder stretches mixed with quick bursts of cold.
An active southern storm track is expected to be a primary driver of the season, bringing wetter-than-normal conditions from Southern California and the Southwest through Texas, the Gulf Coast, and the Southeast. In these regions, residents should prepare for frequent storm activity that could occasionally deliver sleet, freezing rain, or heavy, wet snow when cold air masses move into the area.
The West is expected to see changeable conditions, with the Pacific Northwest facing a less predictable snow season. Meanwhile, the southern Rockies could see above-average mountain snowfall. In the middle of the country, the Almanac expects frequent swings between thawing and freezing conditions, which may create rapidly changing road and field conditions throughout the winter months.
For the Northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes, temperatures are expected to average near normal. However, the region should prepare for quick cold snaps, snow squalls, blustery winds, and brief, intense periods of winter weather. These fluctuations are part of the broader pattern of sharp regional contrasts predicted by the Almanac.
The Northeast faces one of the most complicated winter patterns. Coastal areas are more likely to see rain or mixed precipitation, while inland locations could experience heavier snow. A secondary storm track could bring additional opportunities for rain, wintry mixes, and snow as storms move along the Eastern Seaboard, impacting the mid-Atlantic into New England.
Because temperatures may frequently hover near freezing, the type of precipitation could change quickly. A small shift in temperatures or storm tracks could mean the difference between a rain event and a significant snowstorm. These shifts are influenced by atmospheric patterns and can influence where storms develop and travel during the winter season.
El Niño is expected to remain an important influence during the winter season, according to the Farmers’ Almanac. During El Niño winters, changes in the Pacific Ocean and atmosphere can shift storm tracks across the United States. The pattern often favors wetter conditions across the southern U.S., though the Almanac notes that every El Niño event is different and other weather patterns will also determine how the winter unfolds.
The Farmers’ Almanac has published long-range weather predictions since 1818, using a proprietary forecasting method it says combines natural cycles, solar activity, lunar influences, and historical weather patterns. The publication claims its regional forecasts are 80-85% accurate, though independent reviews have consistently found that long-range forecasts can be much less reliable than short-term weather predictions provided by modern meteorology.
Meteorologists generally caution that seasonal forecasts made months in advance carry significant uncertainty, especially when predicting conditions for specific dates or local areas. It is important to distinguish the Farmers’ Almanac from the Old Farmer’s Almanac; they are two separate publications with similar names. The Farmers’ Almanac was founded in 1818, while the Old Farmer’s Almanac was founded in 1792.
The Farmers’ Almanac previously announced it would end publication after its 2026 edition due to financial pressures. However, the historic publication was acquired by new ownership in January 2026, preventing its permanent closure, according to its website. This ensures the continuation of the brand’s long-standing tradition of long-range forecasting.
The seasonal timeline for these predictions follows standard meteorological tracking. The first official day of fall 2026 is Tuesday, Sept. 22, marking the autumnal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere. Fall weather patterns are tracked from Sept. 1 through Nov. 30. The first official day of winter 2026 is Monday, Dec. 21, marking the winter solstice. Winter weather patterns are tracked from Dec. 1 through Feb. 28.
From California to the Northeast, here’s what the Farmers’ Almanac predicts for winter 2026-27.
30, aligning with the calendar months used to track seasonal weather patterns.
28, aligning with the calendar months used for seasonal weather tracking.
The equinox occurs when the sun crosses the celestial equator, bringing nearly equal amounts of daylight and darkness around the world.
After the equinox, days will continue to grow shorter and nights longer across Texas and the rest of the Northern Hemisphere until the winter solstice in December.
The solstice occurs when the sun reaches its southernmost point relative to the equator, bringing the shortest day and longest night of the year for much of the Northern Hemisphere.
The Farmers’ Almanac will continue online, with plans underway to revive and expand its annual print edition in future years.
Addison covers weather across the nation as the Weather Connect reporter for the Network and contributes to Texas Connect coverage across the state.
She can be reached at baddison@usatodayco.com.
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