Winter Weather Outlook 2026: Regional Forecast for the Remainder of the Season

As we move deeper into winter, Americans across the country are wondering what Mother Nature has in store for the remaining weeks of the season. Here's a comprehensive look at what meteorologists are projecting for each region of the United States through early spring.

Northeast

Residents from Maine to Pennsylvania should prepare for a continuation of classic winter conditions. Temperatures are expected to remain below average, with frequent dips into the single digits and teens across northern New England. The region could see an additional 2-3 feet of snow accumulation before spring arrives, with coastal nor'easters remaining a significant threat through March.

Southeast

The Southeast is projected to experience a milder finish to winter, though periodic cold snaps will push temperatures into the 20s and 30s as far south as northern Florida. Light snow and ice events remain possible for the Carolinas, Tennessee, and northern Georgia, with accumulations of 1-3 inches during any significant winter storms.

Midwest

The heartland faces some of the harshest conditions this winter. Arctic air masses are expected to continue plunging south, bringing dangerous wind chills of -20°F to -40°F across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and the Dakotas. Snowfall totals could reach 3-4 feet in the Great Lakes region, with lake-effect snow bands delivering heavy accumulations to areas east of the lakes.

Southern Plains and Texas

This region should see variable conditions with occasional cold fronts dropping temperatures into the 20s and 30s. While significant snow is unlikely for most areas, freezing rain and ice storms pose the greatest winter weather threat, particularly across Oklahoma and northern Texas.

Mountain West

Excellent news for skiers and water resource managers: the Rockies are projected to continue receiving above-average snowfall. Mountain temperatures will regularly fall below zero at higher elevations, with seasonal snowpack potentially reaching 110-130% of normal by late February.

Pacific Northwest

A persistent La Niña pattern suggests continued wet and cool conditions for Washington and Oregon. Lower elevations will see temperatures in the 30s and 40s with frequent rain, while the Cascades could add another 10-15 feet of snow to already impressive totals.

California and Southwest

Southern California and Arizona will enjoy mild temperatures in the 50s and 60s, though overnight lows may dip near freezing in desert areas. Northern California mountains will continue receiving beneficial snow, helping to improve drought conditions.

Residents in all regions are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and maintain emergency supplies as winter weather can change rapidly.