Here's What Forecasters Are Saying About Winter 2024-25 In PA

PENNSYLVANIA — Warmer than normal temperatures are expected this winter in Pennsylvania, according to a new winter 2024-25 outlook for December, January and February.

The probabilities for above normal precipitation vary based on where in the state you live, according to the updated winter outlook released Thursday by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center.

Specifically, the outlook puts the chance of above normal temperatures at between 40 percent and 50 percent across the state, and equal chances of above normal and below normal precipitation in the Philadelphia area.

In western Pennsylvania and the Pittsburgh metro area, there is a 40 to 50 percent chance of above normal precipitation.

In an earlier statement, NOAA said data supports the development of a weak La Niña that lacks some of the blustery punch traditionally seen in such climate patterns. However,a La Niña “could still influence forecast guidance,” NOAA said.

Right now, here’s how winter is expected to shape up across the country:

Here’s a regional synopsis of the outlook:

Pacific Northwest/Northern Rockies: The precipitation outlook is favorable to ski resorts in the region. Temperatures are expected to be below normal in Washington and northern Oregon, while the chances for a colder than usual winter are about equal elsewhere in the region.

Southwest (California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado): Chances are about equal for a warmer or cooler than average winter in the northern part of the region, but the Southwest could be hotter than normal. The same pattern is expected for precipitation.

Northern Plains/Upper Midwest: Temperatures are expected to be below normal in the Northern Plains, with chances of cold or mild temperatures about equal in the rest of the region. Most of the area is expected to see above-normal precipitation.

Northeast/New England: Temperatures are expected to be above normal up and down the Eastern Seaboard. Precipitation is expected to be above normal in much of the region.

Southeast: Temperatures are expected to be above normal and precipitation below normal throughout the region.

And if you want to compare what other forecasters are saying, check out these previous Patch articles with winter predictions from the Farmer's Almanac and the Old Farmer's Almanac.