US winter is likely to be wetter and warmer, forecasters say. If you want more snow, look south

Winter in the United States is expected to be wetter and warmer this year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other meteorologists. The primary factor influencing this forecast is El Niño, a climate pattern that shifts weather patterns across the country. While El Niño will bring more moisture to the western United States, it will also result in higher temperatures, potentially erasing persistent drought conditions in the region.

However, the warmer and wetter conditions are unlikely to bring relief to northern snow enthusiasts. Metropolitan areas in the northern parts of the country, including the Northeast, Great Lakes, Upper Midwest, and Northern Rockies, are forecasted to experience below-normal snowfall during the upcoming winter season. In contrast, southern regions such as the Southern Rockies, parts of the Southeast, and the Southwest may see above-normal snowfall amounts.

While the National Weather Service does not provide seasonal snowfall predictions, private meteorology firms have also predicted similar trends. Salt Lake City, Utah, is the only major metropolitan area where AccuWeather is forecasting above-normal winter snow amounts. Other cities like Chicago, Boston, and New York are expected to see below-normal snowfall this winter.