Overview of Winter 2026-27 Forecasts

Winter brings varied conditions, including rain, ice, snow, and cold bursts. However, the Old Farmer’s Almanac and Farmers’ Almanac differ in their predictions of severe regions.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac anticipates a mostly mild winter with intense cold spells and more snow than usual. In contrast, the Farmers’ Almanac highlights an active southern storm track and brief cold outbreaks in the North.

Both forecasts agree in certain areas but differ significantly on where the most precipitation and snow will occur. Detailed comparisons follow.

Mild Weather Interspersed with Severe Conditions

Both almanacs predict a mix of mild weather and harsher conditions. The Old Farmer’s Almanac foresees a milder season interrupted by cold and snow, particularly in central New England, the Appalachians, and parts of the West.

The Farmers’ Almanac similarly expects intermittent cold snaps amid milder stretches, forecasting snow, strong winds, and bitter cold mainly in the northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes. Sudden snow squalls are possible even with overall average temperatures.

Northeast Agreements and Mountain Snow

The Northeast is an area of consensus. The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts colder, snowier conditions from central New England to the Appalachians. The Farmers’ Almanac anticipates several heavy snow bouts inland, especially in January and February, with rain or mixed precipitation in coastal areas.

Both almanacs agree on potential mountain snow in the West, but differ on concentration. The Old Farmer’s Almanac points to the Intermountain West and Pacific Northwest. Conversely, the Farmers’ Almanac favors the southern Rockies for snowfall.

Southern and Northwest Divergence

Southern U.S. predictions vary sharply. The Farmers’ Almanac forecasts a “wet and stormy southern tier” from Southern California through to the Southeast, with potential sleet and snow. The Old Farmer’s Almanac expects warmer, drier conditions across Texas, Oklahoma, and the Deep South, with Florida experiencing variable precipitation.

The Pacific Northwest presents another divergence. The Old Farmer’s Almanac forecasts wetter conditions and more snow late in December, mid-January, and mid-February. The Farmers’ Almanac describes the region as having “changeable” and less predictable snowfall.

Upper Midwest and Great Lakes

In the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes, differences mainly involve temperature averages. The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts warmer than normal temperatures with occasional cold snaps. The Farmers’ Almanac expects near-normal temperatures with frequent snow squalls and cold bursts.

About the Almanacs

The Old Farmer’s Almanac and Farmers’ Almanac, despite similar names, have distinct origins and forecasting methods. The Old Farmer’s Almanac, established in 1792, uses a proprietary formula involving solar activity, climatology, and meteorology. In contrast, the Farmers’ Almanac, founded in 1818, employs its own secret long-standing formula. Their forecasts often emphasize different regional details.

For further insights, contact Newsweek editors John Fitzpatrick and Gray R. Thomas.