Dreaming of Snow? AccuWeather’s White Christmas Forecast Reveals Limited Snow Chances

AccuWeather has issued a new holiday forecast. Their updated white Christmas outlook shows fewer states will see snow. This is due to warmer-than-normal temperatures spreading across the country.

The forecast was released on Tuesday, December 23rd. It defines a white Christmas as having at least one inch of snow on the ground on December 25th. This update adjusts earlier, more optimistic predictions from other almanacs.

Warmer Temps Alter Holiday Snow Predictions

The new outlook is a shift from earlier forecasts. In early December, the Old Farmer’s Almanac predicted snow for large areas. This included the Plains, Midwest, and Northeast.

Now, the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center expects much warmer weather. This is especially true for the Plains, South, and Midwest. Many of these same regions may also see less precipitation than usual.

This combination greatly reduces the chance for holiday snow. It also means travel could be easier in many areas. However, it may disappoint those hoping for a picturesque snowy scene.

Where Snow Is Still Expected This Christmas

AccuWeather still predicts strong odds for a white Christmas in several states. The most likely areas are in the West and the far North. These regions have more reliable cold air.

According to the forecast, snow is likely in California, Washington, and Oregon. The Rocky Mountain states of Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah also have high chances. In the East, the best odds are across northern New England, including Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

A CBS News report cited a meteorologist from the Weather Prediction Center. He confirmed the best chances are in the northern Great Lakes and New England. “Those are the areas that look to be pretty good,” he stated.

This year’s white Christmas forecast highlights a significant trend toward warmer holiday weather. While some regions will still enjoy snow, a larger portion of the country can expect a milder Christmas day.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Q1: Which states are most likely to have a white Christmas?

The highest probabilities are in the West and far North. States like Montana, Colorado, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and northern New England top the list according to AccuWeather.

Q2: How does AccuWeather define a ‘white Christmas’?

They define it as having at least one inch of snow on the ground on Christmas morning. This measurement includes any fresh snow that falls on Christmas Day itself.

Q3: Why are snow chances lower this year?

The National Weather Service projects warmer-than-average temperatures for much of the U.S. This warmth, combined with potential for below-normal precipitation, is reducing the likelihood of snow accumulation.

Q4: Were earlier forecasts different?

Yes. Earlier seasonal outlooks, like one from the Old Farmer’s Almanac, suggested broader snow chances. The updated forecast accounts for more recent, warmer weather patterns developing across the central and eastern U.S.

Q5: Is any major holiday snowstorm expected?

Current predictions do not indicate a widespread, major snowstorm for Christmas week. Any significant snow will be confined to the traditional colder climates in the West and far North, with rain more likely elsewhere.