Winter 2025-26 USA Outlook: Big PNW Totals, Frequent NE Storms

According to Farmers Almanac, this winter is shaping up to be a true mixed bag in the U.S. But don't fret. For skiers, there’s plenty to be excited about. If you're willing and able to chase storms, there should be no shortage of powder days. Experts predict a "significant cold snap in mid-January".

Here we have a regional breakdown of farmersalmanac.com's magic predictions:

New England: Frequent Snow and a Busy Storm Track
If you ski the Northeast, this winter should deliver in spades. Experts predict frequent snowstorms for New England, with many systems delivering a mix of snow, sleet, and rain depending on elevation and temperatures. Higher terrain in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine should see consistent refreshes, while coastal resorts may have to battle some rain until it gets cold enough deeper in the winter. Expect ample opportunities for midweek powder days in the NE.

Mid-Atlantic: Mountain Snow Potential
From Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands to West Virginia’s Snowshoe, the Mid-Atlantic looks poised for a decent winter. Coastal low-pressure systems will throw a mix of rain and snow at the region. Areas above 2,000 feet elevation could be looking at solid totals come spring.

Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and North Central: Classic Winter Wonderland
Snow, snow, snow. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, northern Wisconsin, and Minnesota could see the kind of relentless snow that makes for deep base depths and soft turns well into March.

Pacific Northwest: Heavy Pow Incoming
The big headline for U.S. skiing this season is the PNW. West Coast skiers may be in for impressive snowfall in the Cascades. Washington and Oregon ski areas could be in for a parade of moisture-laden storms, stacking up the kind of multi-foot dumps that keep avalanche forecasters busy and skiers stoked.

Southeast: Appalachian Snow Teases
Much of the Southeast will see average temperatures and plenty of rain. But the northern Appalachians, (think North Carolina’s Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain,) could sneak in a few solid snow storms. These windows will be short-lived, so locals should keep be ready to pounce when the moment arrives.

Southern Plains & Texas: More Wet Than White
Western Kansas, Oklahoma, northern Texas, and parts of Nebraska and New Mexico are expected to see a wetter-than-average winter. Watch for the occasional cold snap to turn those systems white. Otherwise, it’s more likely to be cold rain or freezing rain events. Lovely.

Southwest: Wet Winter with Average Temps
While this winter probably won't be breaking any records, the Southwest should see a steady run of storms. Near-average temperatures mean the high elevations in Arizona, southern Utah, and New Mexico could put together some strong ski days.

Bottom line: From the ski hills of Vermont to the peaks of the Cascades, there’s snow in the forecast if you know where to look. This winter will reward the opportunists among us. but if you live in the Northeast or Northwest, you'll have no trouble finding freshies.