The first snowfall forecast for the 2025–2026 winter season is here — and it paints a dramatic picture of what lies ahead. According to AccuWeather’s Long-Range Forecast, early cold fronts and persistent Arctic air will make this one of the most active winters in recent memory.
From Montana’s early September peaks to the Great Lakes’ December whiteouts, this season is expected to bring heavy snowfall, frigid air masses, and strong nor’easters that will shape everything from holiday travel to heating costs.
“We’re forecasting an intense, stormy winter with significant snowfall events at both the beginning and the end of the season,” says Paul Pastelok, AccuWeather’s Lead Long-Range Forecaster. “The middle of winter could bring a brief lull, but early and late storms will define this season.”
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2025–2026 U.S. Winter Forecast: Early Snow, Intense Storms, and Heavy Snowfall
Contents
Winter Snowfall Forecast 2025-26: Overview
| Region | Timing of First Snow | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Rockies | September–Early October | Early mountain dustings; spreads to Utah and Colorado. |
| Pacific Northwest | Late October | Snow in Washington Cascades and Oregon ranges. |
| Upper Midwest | Late October–November | Early snow and strong lake-effect bands. |
| Northeast & New England | Late October–December | First measurable snow by early December; nor’easters likely. |
| Central Plains & Mid-Atlantic | November–December | Expanding snow coverage to Kansas, Pittsburgh, and Boston. |
| Southern States | Late December–January | Light snow possible in northern Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. |
| Deep South & Florida | Rare | Mild and mostly snow-free. |
| Western Mountains | Variable | Dry early; active storm pattern by December. |
Early Winter Storms
Meteorologists describe this as a “bookend winter”—vigorous at the start and finish, with a calm stretch in between.
December 2025
Cold air sweeping south from Canada may collide with Gulf and Atlantic moisture, creating the first nationwide winter storm before the holidays.
“Early December could bring our first significant winter storm of the season,” explains Dr. Jennifer McCall, climate researcher at the National Center for Atmospheric Analysis. “These early systems often catch travelers off-guard, especially during the holiday rush.”
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February–March 2026
By late February, Arctic surges could re-ignite powerful snow events across the Great Lakes, Midwest, and Northeast, reviving winter just as spring nears.
“The Great Lakes region is once again shaping up to be a snow magnet,” adds Dr. Alex Rodriguez, meteorologist at the University of Wisconsin. “Cold air over warm lake waters will intensify lake-effect snowfalls.”
Top 12 Snowiest U.S. Locations (Forecast 2025–2026)
| Rank | Location | Snowfall Outlook | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buffalo, NY | 90–100 inches | Heavy lake-effect blizzards likely. |
| 2 | Minneapolis, MN | 80–90 inches | Persistent early-season snow. |
| 3 | Bismarck, ND | 75+ inches | Frequent Arctic cold fronts. |
| 4 | Salt Lake City, UT | 70 inches | Boost for early ski season. |
| 5 | Fargo, ND | 70 inches | Heavy Plains systems predicted. |
| 6 | Duluth, MN | 65–75 inches | Strong lake-effect snow bands. |
| 7 | Rochester, NY | 90 inches | Major snow events near Lake Ontario. |
| 8 | Erie, PA | 80–90 inches | Consistent lake-effect patterns. |
| 9 | Anchorage, AK | 110+ inches | Early heavy accumulations. |
| 10 | Marquette, MI | 100 inches | Peak snow belt activity. |
| 11 | Flagstaff, AZ | 65 inches | Mountain snow supports tourism. |
| 12 | Mount Washington, NH | 150+ inches | Extreme elevation and nor’easter impacts. |
What’s Driving the 2025–2026 Winter Pattern?
A blend of global climate signals is setting the stage for the stormy setup ahead.
| Climate Driver | Impact on Winter Weather |
|---|---|
| Weak La Niña | Cooler Pacific waters bring colder, snowier conditions across the northern U.S. |
| Polar Jet Stream Dips | More frequent troughs allow Arctic air to plunge southward. |
| Warm Great Lakes | Fuel stronger early lake-effect snow bands. |
| Greenland High-Pressure Blocking | Traps cold air over the U.S., extending winter’s grip. |
“This setup has all the hallmarks of a classic cold and snowy pattern,” notes Dr. Megan Ellis, senior atmospheric scientist at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “The combination of La Niña and a wavy jet stream will bring volatility — and lots of snow — to northern states.”
Travel and Infrastructure Outlook
Early Season (Oct–Dec)
Expect slippery roads, flight delays, and early school closures, especially across the Midwest, Rockies, and Northeast.
Holiday Season (Nov–Dec)
Strong nor’easters may impact major travel corridors, including I-95, and disrupt Thanksgiving and Christmas travel schedules.
Mid-Season (Jan)
A short lull in storm activity could bring slightly milder conditions in central U.S. regions.
Late Season (Feb–Mar)
Anticipate another surge of Arctic outbreaks and snowstorms targeting the Great Lakes and New England.
“Drivers often underestimate how quickly roads can turn treacherous with the season’s first snow,” warns Lt. Brandon Reeves of the Illinois State Police. “Preparation is key to avoiding accidents and delays.”
Winter Preparedness & Safety Tips
| Category | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|
| Home Safety | Test heating systems, insulate pipes, stock up on essentials. |
| Travel | Keep an emergency car kit (blanket, flashlight, snacks, water). |
| Driving | Install snow tires and check antifreeze levels. |
| Health | Refill prescriptions before storms; limit outdoor exposure during cold snaps. |
| Community | Check on elderly neighbors or those with limited mobility. |
Why This Winter Matters?
The 2025–2026 season could have broad ripple effects — from energy consumption to agricultural output and holiday travel patterns. Meteorologists project:
- Heating demand could rise 10–15% in northern states.
- Ski resorts in Utah, Vermont, and Colorado may open earlier than usual.
- Agricultural regions could face frost risks and delayed planting schedules.
“This is shaping up to be one of the most active winters since 2014–2015,” says Dr. Jacob Monroe, environmental climatologist. “Communities that prepare early will handle it best.”
FAQs
When will the first snow fall in the U.S.?
Early snow could start in September across the Rockies and reach the Great Lakes and Northeast by October or November.
Which regions will get the most snow?
The Great Lakes, Upper Midwest, and Northeast will lead the nation, with some cities exceeding 90 inches of accumulation.
Will southern states see snow?
Rarely, though northern Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky may see light dustings by late December
What patterns are influencing this winter?
A weak La Niña, polar jet dips, and warmer Great Lakes waters are driving the cold, stormy conditions.