Winter 2026 2027 us snow forecast

On 13 October 2026, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its official winter outlook for the 2026-2027 season, highlighting the influence of neutral ENSO conditions on the United States. The forecast indicates that the northern tier of the country, particularly the Pacific Northwest and the Upper Midwest, is likely to experience above-average snowfall totals as storm tracks shift northward. Conversely, the southern United States is expected to face a warmer and drier winter, which may limit significant snow accumulation in those regions. Meteorologists emphasized that while these broad trends provide a baseline, regional variability remains high due to short-term atmospheric blocking patterns. The report suggests that residents in the Great Lakes and New England should prepare for potential heavy lake-effect snow events, as fluctuating temperatures over the relatively warm Great Lakes could trigger intense localized storms. Overall, the outlook suggests a winter defined by distinct regional contrasts, with the northern states bearing the brunt of the season's most significant snow-producing systems throughout the coming months.