Weather Predictions for Halloween and Thanksgiving

Halloween Weather Forecast

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has forecasted chilly temperatures and rain across the U.S. for Halloween, potentially disrupting trick-or-treating and other activities. Some regions might experience snow, especially in the Upper Midwest and Alaska, according to the almanac’s predictions.

The Almanac suggests possible rainy conditions in parts of the Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, South Central states, and Northwest. Heidi Stonehill, executive editor of the Almanac, noted the likelihood of snowflakes in the Upper Midwest and snowy periods in Alaska, except for the panhandle, which may have milder weather with rainy spells.

Snow Prospects Across the U.S.

AccuWeather meteorologists, who are not affiliated with the Almanac, foresee snow on the ground by Halloween in high-elevation areas of western Colorado, western Wyoming, eastern Idaho, and Utah. Lower elevations in these states are unlikely to have snow due to warmer temperatures. Rain showers are expected in some regions, including Arizona and southern California, Texas to Oklahoma, South Florida, and coastal Washington and Oregon.

Thanksgiving Expectations

For Thanksgiving, the Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts a higher chance of snow than Halloween. Areas like the Northeast, Atlantic corridor, Appalachians, lower Great Lakes, Upper Midwest, and Alaska might experience snow. Rain is a possibility in the Southeast, Florida, Pacific Northwest, and Hawaii. Texas, Oklahoma, and other regions are forecasted to have warmer weather during Thanksgiving.

Implications of El Niño

With winter approaching, the strengthening El Niño in the Pacific Ocean is a significant factor. El Niño generally affects North America’s winter weather, potentially causing stormier conditions in the southern U.S. and warmer temperatures in northern regions. This could lead to less snowfall in areas usually receiving high amounts, such as the Great Lakes region, complicating snow forecasts.

The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center anticipates above-average temperatures in northern states, including parts of the Northeast, with below-average precipitation from November through January. The Southeast states, less impacted by snowfall, are expected to see rain due to the warmer weather caused by El Niño.