The winter forecast is in! The Old Farmer’s Almanac has spoken, and Philly might just be in for a break this winter. According to the 2025-2026 U.S. Winter Weather Forecast, most of the country can expect milder-than-usual conditions—but with enough wild spells to keep things interesting.
“Don’t lose track of your snow shovels,” warns Almanac Editor Carol Connare. “We’re calling for near-normal to slightly milder temperatures overall, but the Appalachians and areas south through the Southeast could see a colder-than-average season.”
❄️ Winter weather forecast: what’s in store for Philly?
For our region—the Atlantic Corridor, which includes Philadelphia, New York, and D.C.—the outlook leans mild and dry.
The Almanac predicts above-normal temperatures, below-normal precipitation, and less snowfall than usual.
That means fewer messy commutes and more time to enjoy crisp city walks instead of digging out your car. Still, the snow that does fall will likely show up around the holidays and again in late winter, so don’t pack away those boots just yet.
For those of you hoping for a white Christmas, the last time it actually snowed on Christmas Day as in 2002 with a total snowfall of 1.1 inches.
In 2009, Philly enjoyed a white Christmas (8 inches)—although that snow was from a major snow storm the week before.
☃️ A mild winter, but not a lazy one
However, even with the gentler outlook, “mild” doesn’t mean “warm.”
In fact, we can expect some cold snaps in mid t0 late December and again in January.
Overall, The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s verdict for the 2025-26 season is clear:
Mostly mild—with pockets of wild
So while you might get away with fewer snow days, it’s still worth keeping an extra scarf by the door.
❄️ Looking ahead: winter in Philly
Snow aside, winter in the City of Brotherly Love is always downright magical.
From dazzling holiday light installations to outdoor winter markets, there’s never a shortage of spectacular things to do to keep your spirits warm while the temperatures run cold.