Map Shows US States Facing Colder-Than-Normal Weather This Winter
Map Shows US States Facing Colder-Than-Normal Weather This Winter
Lauren HarrisonMon, September 28, 2026 at 11:17 AM UTC
12
The Old Farmer’s Almanac
With El Niño expected to influence the winter weather pattern, a new seasonal map reveals a striking divide across the United States: While much of the country could run relatively mild, a long stretch of the East may end up colder than normal.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac 2026–27 winter forecast calls for colder-than-normal temperatures from central New England through the Appalachians and into the Ohio Valley. Hawaii is also expected to finish the winter cooler than normal.
Related: Map Shows US States Bracing for First Widespread Freeze This Fall
The Coldest Pattern Runs Through the East
The Appalachians stand out because the Almanac expects both below-normal temperatures and above-normal snowfall, particularly across the northern part of the region. Mid-January and mid- to late February are projected to deliver the coldest periods.
The southern portion of the Northeast also leans colder and snowier. There, the Almanac identifies early and mid-January as the coldest periods, with several potentially snowy stretches from December through March.
The Ohio Valley is another cold exception. The regional winter outlook calls for below-normal temperatures, with the coldest conditions expected during mid- and late January.
“While much of the country is headed for a milder season, some areas will still see plenty of cold and snow,” Old Farmer’s Almanac Editor-in-Chief Carol Connare said.
Related: Farmers’ Almanac Reveals What US Homeowners Should Do Before the First Hard Freeze Hits
Advertisement
Much of the Country Faces a Milder Winter
The contrast is what makes the map notable.
The Almanac expects near- or above-normal temperatures across much of the country. The Atlantic Corridor, Southeast, Lower Lakes, Upper Midwest, Texas-Oklahoma, Pacific Northwest and several other regions are forecast to average warmer than normal.
NOAA’s official outlook provides another perspective. Its December-through-February seasonal forecast uses probabilities to show where temperatures are more likely to finish above or below the 1991–2020 average rather than predicting exact winter temperatures or individual cold waves.
Related: Map Shows US States Bracing for First Widespread Freeze of the Season
The First Widespread Freeze Could Arrive Soon
Some Americans won’t have to wait until winter for a serious taste of cold.
NOAA’s U.S. Hazards Outlook highlights an increased risk of much-below-normal temperatures across parts of the Great Lakes and interior Northeast in early October.
NOAA says the pattern could bring the “first widespread frost and freeze of the season” to affected areas. The outlook signals elevated risk rather than guaranteeing every location will fall below 32°F.
Related: Map Shows US States Where Homeowners Should Stop Mowing Lawns Before Winter
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Sep 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Breaking”
