(WVVA) – Winter 2025–2026 looks to be mostly mild across Virginia and West Virginia, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac extended forecast, but residents in higher elevations should be ready for colder snaps and heavier snow at times. The almanac’s long-range outlook says overall temperatures will be near or slightly above normal for much of the country, while the Appalachians and parts of the Ohio Valley are expected to trend colder than average.

The big picture The Old Farmer’s Almanac points to a winter that’s “mostly mild—with pockets of wild.” That means most lowland and coastal communities in Virginia can expect milder, drier conditions with fewer snow days than usual. Meanwhile, the southern and higher-elevation Appalachian counties are likely to see colder conditions and a split snow pattern: lighter snow in the northern highlands and heavier amounts in the southern mountains.

West Virginia’s forecast varies by geography. Lower, western valleys should experience a chillier but manageable winter, while eastern and higher parts of the state may see more frequent snow events. The almanac places much of the Mountain State in a zone where snowy spells are more likely at key times through the season.

Timing to watch

Forecasters single out several windows for colder weather and potential storms: mid to late December, parts of January, and early February. For Virginia’s Atlantic corridor, the snowiest stretches are expected around the holidays, early January and again in late February. In the Appalachians, the almanac notes heavier snowfall chances in late December, late January and early February, especially at elevation.

What’s driving the forecast

The almanac cites several large-scale factors shaping the season, including a recent peak in solar activity, the Pacific moving from La Niña toward neutral conditions, and steady ocean oscillations that can influence storm tracks. Those shifts can push Arctic air south at times, producing brief but intense cold snaps that contrast with otherwise mild conditions.

Practical advice for residents

Even a mostly mild winter can produce disruptive weather. Officials and weather experts recommend simple steps to prepare:

• Check local forecasts often and be alert to changing conditions
• Keep rock salt and shovels handy and clear yards and driveways promptly after heavy snow
• Insulate pipes and drain outdoor faucets to prevent freezing
• If you must travel, carry an emergency kit with water, snacks, warm clothing and a phone charger
• For vulnerable properties, arrange for someone to check on heating systems and utilities

Why this matters

Milder winters can reduce the number of harsh cold days while increasing the risk of freeze-thaw cycles that affect roads, crops and infrastructure. In the mountains, heavier snow at higher elevations can mean travel disruptions and power outages. For gardeners and homeowners, a warmer winter may also affect pest cycles and spring planting times.

This outlook is based on the Old Farmer’s Almanac 2025–2026 winter forecast. For full regional details, visit the Old Farmer’s Almanac winter forecast page here.

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