Michigan could see a milder winter than normal, with bursts of snow, according to the winter predictions recently released by the Old Farmer's Almanac.
Among the 18 weather regions for which the Old Farmer's Almanac offers predictions, normal to mild temperatures are expected this winter — with the exception of the Appalachians, Southeast, Florida and Ohio Valley, where below-normal temperatures are predicted.
"That’s the big picture: most of the United States can expect a typical or slightly milder winter — but some regions should brace for a sharper chill," the Old Farmer's Almanac said.
For the Upper Midwest and Lower Lakes — taking in Northern Michigan, the Upper Peninsula and the rest of the state — the Almanac said to expect mild and dry conditions this winter.
Normal to below-normal precipitation is forecast for most of the nation, but Florida, the intermountain region and desert southwest may see more than usual.
"Remember: “Mild” is relative. It’s still winter — so plan (and dress!) accordingly," the Old Farmer's Almanac said. "And if you’re in a snow-prone area, don’t retire that shovel just yet."
The Old Farmer's Almanac differs from the Farmers' Almanac, which said Michigan could see colder and snowier conditions this year.
Here's how forecasters see the upcoming season.
What does the Old Farmer's Almanac say about Michigan?
In Michigan's Upper Peninsula, there could be bursts of snow, with the heaviest snow falling in late November, late January and early February. The Almanac says to expect above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation and snowfall.
In the Lower Peninsula, a milder winter with below-average precipitation and patchy snow is expected.
"Lake-effect snow is still probable — stay alert during December and March," the Almanac said.
Precipitation will be normal to below normal with the snowiest periods in mid- to late November, much of December, early and late January, early February, early to mid-March
The coldest periods are predicted to occur in mid- to late December, early and late January, and early February.
When is the official start of winter 2025-26?
Winter begins at 10:03 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, according to the Farmers' Almanac, marking the winter solstice as the shortest day of the year (therefore, longest night) and official start to winter.
The winter solstice is the start of astronomical winter, when Earth's northern hemisphere is pointed the farthest away from the sun due to its tilted axis.
What does the Farmers' Almanac forecast for Michigan's winter this year?
Michigan is expected to see a very cold and snowy winter. A "significant" cold snap is forecast to occur mid-January and mid-February.
"If you’re craving a classic winter wonderland, this is your year. New England and the Great Lakes are forecast to see frequent snowstorms, with the Pacific Northwest’s mountains also in for a powdery treat," the Almanac said.
What does the National Weather Service predict for winter?
Michigan is forecast to see normal temperatures for December, January and February, the NWS seasonal outlook released on July 17, says. The November to January outlook says temperatures across the southern half of the Lower Peninsula could be above normal.
Could Michigan get a lot of snow this winter?
For the southern half of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, there is a chance for above-normal precipitation for December-February. The rest of Michigan is forecast to see typical levels.
How accurate are the almanacs?
The almanacs provide a long-range forecast for farmers to plan ahead and optimize their yield.
A climavision.com article notes the uncertainty of almanacs should be taken into consideration and shouldn't be relied on for detailed predictions.
"While the (Old Farmer's) Almanac claims an 80% accuracy rate and has made notable predictions, studies show it is only 52% accurate, making it unreliable for precise, long-term forecasts compared to modern meteorology," according to climavision.com.
An article from popularmechanics.com also questions the accuracy of such almanacs.
"The almanacs say they can predict weather with around 80% accuracy, but a University of Illinois study disagreed, saying the Almanac was only about 52% accurate — which is essentially random chance," popularmechanics.com said.
Contact Sarah Moore @ [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Northern Michigan winter weather: What Old Farmer's Almanac predicts for 2025-26
Comments