Winter is coming, but what will it be like? NOAA Forecast meteorologists predict where we should be concerned about cold, heat, or snow

As winter looms, NOAA’s latest seasonal forecast lays out what Americans might expect across the country from December until February. From their Climate Prediction Center, they are predicting a season that plays out quite differently depending on where you live.

On a general level, much of the United States is expected to see warmer-than-usual temperatures. But that heat will be especially pronounced in the South, where dry and warm conditions are likely to dominate.

In contrast, many Northern states may see more precipitation and slightly cooler trends than the historical average.

These projections are heavily influenced by the recent shift to a La Niña climate pattern. This phase, part of the larger El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), typically brings drier and warmer winters to the southern states, while pushing cooler, wetter weather into the Pacific Northwest, the northern plains, and Great Lakes regions.

NOAA expects this La Niña phase to persist through February 2026 before gradually fading toward a neutral state in spring.

In terms of rain and snow, the forecast signals above-normal precipitation for the Pacific Northwest and parts of California, the Rockies, western parts of the Great Lakes, and the northern plains. In the South—especially across the Southwest, Southeast, and southern Texas—conditions are more likely to be drier than average.

Related stories

Celebrities

Worries grow over Brigitte Bardot’s health

Social Security

Some Social Security recipients are getting a double payment this month: find out who - and why

One notable gap: while NOAA offers projections for temperature and precipitation, the agency does not forecast snowfall amounts in this seasonal outlook. That means while we have a decent picture of moisture and warmth, the snow totals remain uncertain.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.