Weather
Winter may be in the rearview mirror, but the anticipation for next season is already building. As summer officially begins tomorrow, a handful of ski resorts across the globe are still spinning lifts for late-season turns, and the southern hemisphere’s ski season is just getting underway. For many, the end of one season marks the start of planning for the next. With that in mind, early winter weather forecasts are offering the first clues about where skiers and snowboarders might find the coldest temperatures and deepest snow in 2025-26. Direct Weather just released its first look at a winter 2025-26 forecast. Here’s a quick summary, but check out the full video for more details.
Winter 2025-26 Forecast
For skiers and snowboarders planning their winter adventures in 2025-26, early seasonal indicators suggest a promising setup for cold and snowy conditions in several key regions across North America. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on the latest long-range forecast analysis.
ENSO Outlook: Neutral to La Niña Favored
- The El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is expected to be in a neutral phase for most of the winter, with about a 55-75% probability, while there’s a notable but smaller chance (around 35%) of a La Niña pattern developing. The chance of El Niño is low (under 17%).
- A neutral or La Niña winter typically favors colder and snowier conditions in the northern and eastern United States, which is excellent news for many ski destinations.
Regional Highlights
Coldest and Snowiest Regions
The coldest and snowiest regions for the upcoming winter are expected to be concentrated across the north-central United States, the Great Lakes, the Northeast, and New England. These areas are forecast to experience persistent cold, especially during January, with the potential for frequent Arctic blasts and significant snowfall. The Great Lakes region, in particular, could see above-average snowfall and sustained cold, especially mid-winter. The Northeast and New England are also likely to be cooler than average, with increased chances for both coastal and inland snowstorms. The Midwest and Ohio Valley, which have experienced snow droughts in recent years, may see a resurgence in both snow and cold this season. Additionally, the Mid-Atlantic region could have opportunities for coastal storms and above-normal snowfall, particularly in December.
Other Notable Trends
- Western US: Warmer and drier than average, especially along the West Coast and Southwest. Ski resorts here may see below-normal snowfall, particularly in California and the Pacific Northwest.
Southeast US & Gulf Coast: Warmer and drier, with limited snow potential. Not a prime season for rare southern snowfalls.
Month-by-Month Insights
December 2025
- Active storm tracks favoring inland and coastal Northeast, with above-average snow chances from the Mid-Atlantic to New England.
- Drier and warmer conditions in the Southeast and Gulf regions.
January 2026
- Strong signals for Arctic air outbreaks in the central and eastern US, with the coldest conditions centered over the northern Plains, Midwest, and Northeast.
- Increased potential for “clipper” systems and Miller B Nor’easters, bringing frequent snow to the Great Lakes and Northeast.
February 2026
- Cold persists in the north-central and northeastern US, though slightly less intense than January.
- Continued active storm tracks in the Northeast, with above-average snow potential.
Historical Analogs
- The forecast draws parallels to the winter of 2014-15, which featured persistent cold and frequent snowstorms in the Northeast and Midwest—conditions that skiers and snowboarders will remember fondly.
Key Takeaways for Skiers and Snowboarders
- Best Bets: Northern Plains, Great Lakes, Midwest, Northeast, and New England for the coldest and snowiest conditions.
- Challenging Areas: Western US and Southeast, where warmth and dryness may limit ski season potential.
- Storm Tracks: Expect more inland and coastal storms in the East, boosting snow chances for many resorts.
This early outlook suggests a classic winter for snow lovers in the northern and eastern US, with plenty of opportunities for powder days. Keep an eye on updates as the season approaches for more region-specific details and trip planning advice.
