Story perspectives

Extreme Winter Weather Looms for Europe in 2025/2026

9/6/2025

Summary

Story summary

Winter 2025/2026 in Europe may experience extreme weather contrasts due to La Niña and the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO).
December will likely be stormy and wet, followed by severe cold in February from a weakened polar vortex.
The NAO is expected to shift from positive in December to negative in January and February, raising Arctic outbreak chances.
A potential Sudden Stratospheric Warming event in January could trigger significant cold spells.
Oceanic patterns will add to seasonal volatility, affecting infrastructure and agriculture across Europe.

History

Historical Context

The winter of 1962-1963 was one of Europe's coldest, with temperatures in London dropping to -19°C. Influenced by the North Atlantic Oscillation, this severe winter disrupted transportation and agriculture, similar to anticipated climatic volatility in 2025/2026. Understanding these historical weather extremes underscores the potential impacts of current climate shifts on European infrastructure and food security.

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Story summary

Winter 2025/2026 in Europe may experience extreme weather contrasts due to La Niña and the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO).
December will likely be stormy and wet, followed by severe cold in February from a weakened polar vortex.
The NAO is expected to shift from positive in December to negative in January and February, raising Arctic outbreak chances.
A potential Sudden Stratospheric Warming event in January could trigger significant cold spells.
Oceanic patterns will add to seasonal volatility, affecting infrastructure and agriculture across Europe.

1 / 2