Chicago

Farmer's Almanac Releases New Winter Prediction, And It Doesn't Look Good

A new winter forecast is melting predictions of a milder winter in the Chicago area this year

Winter is coming.

But what it will look like just got a bit more confusing.

A new winter forecast is melting predictions of a milder winter in the Chicago area this year, instead calling for “biting cold” and snowy conditions.

The latest prediction from the Farmer’s Almanac, which says it bases its long-range forecasts on a “mathematical and astronomical formula developed in 1818,” differs from one put out earlier by the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

The earlier prediction called for above-average temperatures for much of the country during the winter season ahead, noting a decrease in solar activity and the expected arrival of a weak El Nino.

But the Farmer’s Almanac says the Great Lakes will likely see teeth-chattering temperatures mid-February as an Arctic front brings “blustery and bitter winds, a sharp drop in temperature, and widespread snow showers.”

But there’s one thing both predictions seem to agree on – above-normal precipitation.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac noted some of the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and part of Wisconsin, can expect to see a wet season, though the almanac said it expects below-normal levels of snowfall in areas that normally get snow.

The Farmer’s Almanac also predicts above-normal precipitation, but calls for higher levels of snowfall.

According to long-range forecasts from the National Weather Service as of August, October through December are expected to see above-average temperatures with normal precipitation.

So what does that mean? Looks like we'll just have to wait and see. 

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