The Farmers’ Almanac says we’re in for a ‘wild ride’ this winter
The Farmers’ Almanac winter forecast for 2025-2026 calls for a long season of cold and snow across much of the U.S.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac and the Farmers’ Almanac differ a bit on their winter forecasts for Ohio.
One calls for different conditions depending on where you live in the state. The other says it will be cold and snowy throughout Ohio.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac is calling for cold and snowy conditions in portions of Central and Southeast Ohio, mild and dry conditions across northern Ohio, and just cold and dry in Southwest Ohio.
Meanwhile, the Farmers’ Almanac predicts it will be “very cold” and snowy throughout the state.
“Grab your warmest coat and boots!” according to the Farmers’ Almanac. “Winter 2025-2026 is shaping up to be a wild ride. Get ready to ‘chill, snow, repeat.'”
When does winter start in 2025?
The first day of winter this year will be Sunday, Dec. 21. It will last until Friday, March 20.
What does the Old Farmer’s Almanac say about winter in Ohio?
The Old Farmer’s Almanac splits Ohio into two different regions, with the “Lower Lakes” covering the northern portion, including Cleveland, and the Ohio Valley covering the southern portion of the state.
In the Lower Lakes region, the publication calls for above normal temperatures and near to normal snowfall. The coldest periods will be mid- to late December, early and late January, and early February.
What does the Farmers’ Almanac say about winter in Ohio?
The Farmers’ Almanac is predicting colder conditions and a healthy amount of snowfall expected in Ohio.
“The Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and North Central states are set for a classic winter wonderland, while the Pacific Northwest mountains are gearing up for some impressive snowfall totals,” according to the Farmers’ Almanac.
What’s the difference between the Old Farmer’s Almanac and the Farmers’ Almanac?
Both publications have predicted weather conditions for different parts of North America for centuries.
They both also use solar forecasts, historical and long-range weather data and proprietary (special secret sauce-style formulas) to let readers know just how miserable their weather might be as the seasons change.
Here is a look at how the almanacs differ:
The Old Farmer’s Almanac
- First printed in 1792 by Robert B. Thomas.
- Predicts next year’s weather for 18 regions in the United States and seven in Canada.
- Includes stories from family farms highlighting big risks they have taken that paid off personally, in their communities and the environment.
- Includes gardening tips to follow to grow perfect perennials and chiles for every palate, plus articles on delicious Ukrainian food dishes and Christmas family traditions, banana recipe contest winters and practical life advice.
- Is printed and distributed by Yankee Publishing Inc., an employee-owned company in Dublin, New Hampshire, and can be purchased online and at establishments where books and magazines are sold.
The Farmers’ Almanac
- First printed in 1818 by David Young.
- Predicts next year’s weather for seven U.S. and five Canadian climatological regions.
- Predicts what will be the best days to fish, wean animals, plant crops and set eggs.
- Includes quirky facts, adages, advice, quotes and proverbs, as well as articles about mistletoe, bird nests, perennials, timekeeping, recipes and more.
- Is printed and distributed by Geiger, a Lewiston, Maine, operation that promotes itself as the largest privately owned promotional products distributor in the world. It can be bought online and at establishments where books and magazines are sold.
What does the Farmers’ Almanac say about fall in Ohio?
The Farmers’ Almanac predicted a wet fall season for Ohio, with a “white finish.”
“October ushers in familiar fall weather,” according to the almanac’s fall forecast. “The Northeast and Great Lakes regions begin to flirt with early snow, especially in higher elevations, while the Southeast enjoys a stretch of pleasant weather — perfect for fall festivals and Halloween preparations. However, don’t be fooled by the calm!”
The forecast didn’t leave out the possibility of snow for the Thanksgiving holiday.
“November brings the first real taste of winter for many. Snow becomes more frequent in the Rockies, Plains, and Great Lakes, with wet snow even reaching parts of the Northeast,” according to the almanac. “Thanksgiving week looks like a meteorological mixed bag — light snow and rain could complicate travel plans in the central and eastern U.S., but many areas should see clearing skies just in time for the holiday feast.”
Includes reporting by The Oklahoman.
