The outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggests that warmer conditions are likely in the North, while the South can expect more moisture and stormier conditions.
The United States winter ahead is anticipated to feature below-average snowfall and a reduced number of extreme cold outbreaks, according to federal forecasters
NOAA officials attribute this United States winter’s expected weather patterns to the influence of a strong El Nino, which is further amplified by climate change and record warm ocean temperatures. The warmer conditions may lead to some storms that would typically bring snow transforming into rain in the northern parts of the country. However, there’s hope for snow enthusiasts as there’s a chance of significant Nor’easters along the East Coast, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region.
The majority of the U.S. is predicted to experience warmer-than-normal conditions, encompassing areas from Tennessee to California. NOAA doesn’t foresee cooler-than-normal temperatures in any part of the country.
El Nino, a natural climate phenomenon, is driving these weather changes. It alters weather patterns globally, particularly affecting the U.S. during the winter by pushing the jet stream southward, causing increased rainfall in the South and more storminess. This unusual jet stream path, originating from the Pacific, can also bring heavy snow to the East Coast.
NOAA scientists emphasize the additional impact of climate change on United States winter patterns, as the season continues to warm over the years due to human activities
Meteorologists outside NOAA largely concur with this outlook, predicting a milder United States winter, with less snowfall and a few intense snow events. East Coast residents should brace for unpredictable weather, as the United States winter may bring little snow overall but the possibility of some significant storms, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region. Other private forecasters, like AccuWeather, share a similar sentiment, forecasting below-average snowfall in various cities and cooler-than-normal temperatures in specific regions.
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