Farmer’s Almanac winter forecast 2026 – 2027: What to expect where you live

Get ready for a winter defined by contrasts. According to the latest forecast from the Farmer’s Almanac, the 2026-2027 season is shaping up to be a total mixed bag, featuring active storm tracks in the south, quick bursts of arctic air in the north, and an unpredictable mess of precipitation across the northeast.

What to expect this season

The Almanac notes that the upcoming winter will be defined by an active and wet southern storm track, alongside sporadic, intense snow and cold across northern regions. For the Northeast, residents should prepare for a particularly tricky combination of rain, sleet, ice, and heavy, wet snow.

The Southern Forecast

In the South, El Niño is expected to drive wetter-than-normal conditions. This shift supports an active storm track stretching from Southern California through the desert Southwest and Texas, eventually pushing down to the Gulf Coast. If temperatures take a dive, those wet conditions could easily transition into sleet, freezing rain, and heavy snowfall, particularly throughout the southern Rockies.

Regional Breakdown

Heavier-than-normal precipitation is anticipated from California and the Southwest moving eastward through Texas, the Gulf Coast, and the Southeast. Meanwhile, a secondary storm path is forecasted to bring more opportunities for rain and wintry precipitation from the mid-Atlantic up into New England.

While much of the West, northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes expect average temperatures, the Farmer’s Almanac warns these areas are still vulnerable to sudden cold snaps and brief, snowy interludes. The Plains and Great Lakes regions may see the harshest conditions, featuring blustery winds, snow squalls, and bursts of bitter cold.

For those in the Northeast, expect a complex pattern, with coastal communities bracing for increased rain and snow, especially as we head into January and February. The Pacific Northwest might experience a less dependable snow season, while the northern Plains and Upper Midwest could trend drier, save for brief windows of wind, cold, and snow.

205focus.com readers can view the full detailed winter weather predictions by visiting the official Farmer’s Almanac forecast page.