The Farmer’s Almanac Gives It’s Winter Predictions: You Might Not Want to Read Them

September 20, 2017 | By Jenni D'Alton

It’s time to accept that summer is drawing its final breath. Prepare yourself: Winter approaches. The 226-year-old Old Farmer’s Almanac, chock full of kitschy recipes and homely advice, has become a closely watched predictor of weather. And it has just released its forecast for the year ahead.

Whether or not you believe in the rural reference book’s validity, it still is interesting to consider (lightly or seriously, it’s up to you). According to its website, the Farmer’s Almanac bases its forecasts on a “secret formula” (yes, just like Krabby Patties) that is “locked in a black box” in their head offices located in Dublin, New Hampshire.

If you’re into this kind of thing but also into warm weather, you may want to shield your eyes now. “We’ll feel the cold in our fingers, we’ll feel it on our toes.” Wet Wet Wet said it, and their band’s name also sums up what winter 2018 has in store for us. The Farmer’s Almanac noted a few dates in their diary that stand out among the rest for major snowfall and rain, so check them out if you are planning any winter getaways:

Jan. 20-23
Feb. 4-7
Feb. 16-19
March 1-3
March 20-23

This rise in precipitation will most likely affect areas between the Northeast and the Great Lakes. For sun, Florida may not be your best choice for some sun ray-filled respite, as the Gulf Coast is preparing to be exceptionally chilly with higher than average precipitation. So, if you’re braving it, pack a poncho for Disneyland. Notable exceptions to this wet winter are the Pacific Northwest and Upper Midwest, where less precipitation than usual is expected. As for guaranteed sunshine, play it safe and head to the Golden State of California and beach it up.

The Farmer’s Almanac predicts that the states that lie east of the Rocky Mountains and west of the Mississippi River will experience some turbulent weather changes, including periods of balmy and warm weather, along with some blustery spells. The good news? A dry winter is in store for those who live west of the Rocky Mountains.