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NOAA Warns Warmer Winter, Less Snow for Midwest

By Drooid · Oct 20, 2026, 4:47 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

NOAA Forecasts Warm Winter

NOAA forecasts a warmer-than-average winter across the Midwest and Great Lakes due to a strong El Niño.
AccuWeather projects Chicago will receive 12-25 inches of snow, far below its 38.4-inch average.
John Gumm gives a 70% chance of above-normal temperatures and a 60% chance of near-or-below normal snowfall for Cincinnati.
NOAA warns drought could develop in the northern Rockies, northeastern Oregon, and eastern Washington.

Summary

Nevada Receives Heavy Snow

Lower-elevation ski areas in the Northeast may lose snow cover, risking reduced revenue this winter.
Salt Lake City is forecast to receive 50-65 inches of snow, up from 3.7 inches last season.
California’s heavy mountain snow could trigger flooding and landslides, potentially disrupting travel to ski resorts.
The Great Basin region in Nevada is expected to see above-average snowfall, benefiting local ski operations.

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NOAA Forecasts Warm Winter

NOAA forecasts a warmer-than-average winter across the Midwest and Great Lakes due to a strong El Niño.
AccuWeather projects Chicago will receive 12-25 inches of snow, far below its 38.4-inch average.
John Gumm gives a 70% chance of above-normal temperatures and a 60% chance of near-or-below normal snowfall for Cincinnati.
NOAA warns drought could develop in the northern Rockies, northeastern Oregon, and eastern Washington.

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