October 17th, 2024

IOWA CITY, IA – Winter is on its way, and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC) has released its official winter outlook for 2024-25, forecasting that a weak La Niña will shape the upcoming season’s weather patterns across the United States. While this La Niña is expected to be brief, it will still have significant impacts.

What La Niña Means for Winter Weather

Typically, La Niña brings colder and wetter conditions to the northern U.S., while the southern regions experience drier and warmer weather. For the 2024-25 winter, forecasters anticipate similar trends, though the weak nature of this La Niña may temper its overall effect.

Temperature Trends

The CPC’s temperature outlook points to above-average temperatures for much of the U.S., stretching from the Southwest through the central U.S., and across the Southeast, mid-Atlantic, and into New England.

Meanwhile, the northern tier of the country—including the Pacific Northwest, northern Rockies, and northern Plains—has a greater chance of below-average temperatures. Northern Alaska is also likely to see above-average seasonal temperatures, while southern Alaska could experience cooler-than-normal conditions.

Precipitation Patterns

This winter, drier-than-normal conditions are expected for the southern U.S., including the Southwest, Gulf Coast, and Southeast. Southeastern Alaska and the Alaska Panhandle are also projected to experience reduced precipitation.

On the flip side, parts of the Pacific Northwest, northern Rockies, Great Lakes, and northern and western Alaska are likely to see above-average precipitation, leading to increased chances of snow and rain.

Drought Conditions

Drought remains a significant concern, particularly across the southern U.S. from the Southwest through the southern Plains and parts of the Southeast. The CPC predicts that drought conditions will persist or expand through January 2025 in these areas. Northern regions, such as the Great Lakes, will also continue to experience drought, though the intensity may vary.

Final Thoughts on the Winter Outlook

Even though this La Niña is expected to be weak, its impact will still shape the season’s weather. Colder, wetter conditions are anticipated in the North, while the South faces warmer, drier conditions. With drought conditions in play and varying weather patterns across the country, staying updated is essential.