Cold weather may arrive earlier than usual in many northern areas, bringing the first wintry blasts before winter officially begins on Dec. 21. Snowy conditions could make for a White Christmas in parts of the Northern Plains.
The season is also expected to last longer, with wintry weather potentially sticking around through March and even into April in regions like New England, the Great Lakes, and the Northern Plains.
Northeast — including New York and New England — late January is expected to be an “active” period for storms. A sharp cold snap is likely between Jan. 8 and 15, hitting New England hardest but also reaching parts of the northern Mid-Atlantic.
According to the Farmers’ Almanac, New England and the Northern Plains will likely see the coldest temperatures of the season.
Midwest, Ohio & Michigan – New Year’s Day will be chilly and breezy, with snow in northern Michigan and Wisconsin. A big Great Lakes snowstorm is forecast for Feb. 8–11, followed by frigid air. Early March will bring more snow to much of the region, ending with brisk, windy weather.
Northwest (Idaho, Oregon, Washington) – Chilly and wet overall, great for ski season. Expect heavy mountain snow and plenty of coastal rain in February and March.
North Central States (CO, IA, KS, MO, MN, MT, NE, ND, SD, WY) – A “classic winter wonderland” with very cold and snowy conditions. Snowstorms in February and March; Easter may bring light snow to the Dakotas and Minnesota.
Southeast (AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV) – Mild overall but wet. Northern areas could see wintry precipitation in January. February will be especially rainy before turning mild.
Texas & South Central (AR, LA, OK, NM, TX) – Mostly cold and wet. Northern Texas may see snow and freezing rain in January, plus snow in mid-February and March.
California & Southwest (AZ, CA, NV, UT) – Mild, with average temps and some rain. End of January may bring rain and wind to California, helping reduce wildfire risk.
