Winter 2026-27 may bring a demanding season for U.S. homeowners if El Niño remains a major influence, with forecasts pointing to unstable conditions that could play out differently across the country.
For many households, the concern may not be limited to major snowstorms. Rain, sleet, freezing weather, and abrupt temperature swings could still complicate travel and create extra home maintenance issues.
Here's what to know
In a report highlighted by Realtor.com, the Farmers' Almanac urged Americans to get ready for a winter of "snow, sleet, and surprises" linked to an active El Niño pattern.
Some of the most pronounced effects are expected across the southern tier, including Southern California, the Desert Southwest, Texas, the Gulf Coast, and the Southeast. In those areas, wetter-than-normal conditions paired with blasts of cold air could set the stage for sleet, freezing rain, and heavy, wet snow.
The West, northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes are expected to average temperatures near normal, but that does not mean the season will be uneventful. Fast-moving clippers, snow squalls, strong winds, and sudden cold snaps are all in the outlook, along with breaks of milder weather.
Ken Graham, director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service, said, "Every El Niño is not the same; each one is unique with its own imprint on our weather." He added: "Advanced monitoring and an improved understanding of El Niño patterns allow the NWS to better predict and better prepare the public and our core partners for what is to come."
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More background
The NOAA says El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern tied to warmer Pacific Ocean surface temperatures, with its effects often most noticeable during winter.
In the Northeast and mid-Atlantic, temperatures may stay close enough to freezing that slight atmospheric shifts could determine whether a storm brings rain, sleet, or heavier snowfall. Coastal areas are more likely to end up with rain or a wintry mix, while inland communities may face greater odds of bigger snow events, especially in January and February.
The Pacific Northwest could also see a less predictable winter, with snow levels changing from storm to storm and accumulation proving less dependable.
Frequent freeze-thaw cycles can leave roads slick, strain roofs and gutters, and raise the likelihood of water damage around homes.
What can be done?
Before the coldest stretch of the season arrives, homeowners can help reduce problems by clearing out gutters. Leaves and other debris can hold moisture and contribute to ice buildup.
Derek Christian, owner of Handyman Connection in Blue Ash, Ohio, recommends one last cleanup once the trees are bare to "avoid moisture building up against your house — and ice dams."
Another useful step is checking attic insulation and sealing any openings before colder weather settles in. Christian warned, "Make sure any gaps and holes into your attic are sealed tight. As winter approaches, critters will be looking for somewhere to spend it."
Sophie Kaemmerle, a home improvement expert with NeighborWho, emphasized the need for safety precautions when heating sources are in heavier use, saying, "With all these heat sources in use, homeowners must take precautions to protect themselves from house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning."
Where can I learn more?
These stories from last winter help explain why weather can look so different from one region to the next — and how even a small shift in temperature can create bigger problems for travel and home maintenance.
• In Colorado, mountain observers saw less than typical snow as winter patterns shifted.
• Across the West, December felt like March as snow drought disrupted ski season.
• In Iowa, officials saw a dramatic shift in what winter usually looks like.
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