NOAA or Farmers Almanacs: Which Winter Forecast Will Prove Accurate?

This winter season promises varying forecasts, with differing predictions from NOAA, the Old Farmer’s Almanac, and The Farmers’ Almanac. This divergence in outlooks sets the stage for a notable winter in the United States.

NOAA’s Winter Forecast

On Thursday, NOAA unveiled its annual winter outlook, predicting a colder winter in the northern United States. They anticipate that the southern regions will see warmer-than-average temperatures.

Key elements of NOAA’s prediction include:

• A colder winter for the northern tier and Upper Midwest.
• Wetter-than-average conditions expected in the Ohio Valley and southern Great Lakes.
• Drought conditions forecasted for the Desert Southwest, Southeast, and the Gulf Coast.

La Niña’s Influence

NOAA’s forecast heavily incorporates the La Niña pattern, which indicates colder conditions for the central and eastern United States. They foresee the potential for frigid weather, particularly in the Upper Midwest.

In addition, the Pacific Northwest may enjoy a wetter and cooler winter, which could alleviate ongoing drought concerns.

The Farmers’ Almanac Predictions

In contrast, The Farmers’ Almanac anticipates a winter filled with dramatic temperature swings and varied weather patterns. Their outlook includes:

• Colder temperatures expected from the northern Plains to New England.
• Rain and snow mix for the East Coast, with classic winter conditions in the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley.

They advise residents to prepare for a dynamic winter, coining the phrase “chill, snow, repeat.”

Old Farmer’s Almanac Outlook

The Old Farmer’s Almanac differs significantly from the other two forecasts. They predict a milder and calmer winter, suggesting:

• Overall slightly warmer temperatures across much of the country.
• Extended dry stretches of weather.
• Regions from the Appalachians to Florida may still encounter colder-than-normal conditions.

Editor Carol Connare humorously reminds readers not to forget their snow shovels and umbrellas.

Conclusion

As the winter season approaches, residents across the U.S. must prepare for varied conditions as predicted by NOAA, The Farmers’ Almanac, and Old Farmer’s Almanac. Each source presents a unique viewpoint on what to expect this winter.

Time will reveal which outlook will be the most accurate, but it might be wise to ready those snow shovels and winter gear just in case.