Winter 2026-2027 snowfall predictions
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The gist
Forecasters predict a strong Super El Niño for winter 2026-2027. Expect above-average snowfall across much of the U.S., except the northwest and upper Midwest.
Background
Winter 2026-2027 snowfall predictions are trending as multiple forecasters release their outlooks. NOAA forecasts the strongest El Niño on record, which typically influences winter weather patterns. The Old Farmer's Almanac and Farmers' Almanac have also issued their seasonal forecasts, predicting a mix of mild and snowy conditions across different regions.
How it unfolded
- Aug 21, 2026The Farmer's Almanac releases its 2026/2027 winter forecast, predicting rain or mixed precipitation for coastal New England and heavy, wet snow inland.
- Aug 27, 2026NOAA forecasts the strongest El Niño ever on record for the 2026-27 winter season, indicating a wet winter for Georgia with snow and ice expected.
- Aug 28, 2026The Old Farmer's Almanac warns of a 'snowier-than-normal' winter, with heavy snow in central New England, Appalachians, Intermountain region, Pacific Northwest, and Alaska.
- Sep 1, 2026The Old Farmer's Almanac releases its winter outlook for the Pacific Northwest, predicting slightly warmer temperatures but above-average moisture and snowfall.
- Sep 2, 2026The Old Farmer's Almanac forecast for Washington, D.C. offers conflicting signals, with some areas expecting cold and snow while others see milder conditions.
- Sep 3, 2026Severe-weather.eu publishes seasonal model snowfall predictions, showing higher snowfall across much of the U.S. except northwest and upper Midwest, with significant anomalies in January and February.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- NOAA forecasts the strongest El Niño on record, giving high confidence of a memorable winter with wet conditions in the Southeast.
- Analysts
- Severe-weather.eu notes a positive snowfall trend for most of the U.S. compared to last year, driven by the strong El Niño pattern.
- Caution
- The Old Farmer's Almanac editor Carol Connare says winter won't look the same everywhere, with milder conditions in many areas but cold and snow in others.
Still unverified
The exact snowfall amounts and regional impacts are predictions, not certainties. The Old Farmer's Almanac and Farmers' Almanac forecasts are based on their own methods and may differ from NOAA's outlook.