It may still be stiflingly hot and humid across Illinois as we near mid-August, but the Farmers’ Almanac is already preparing residents for winter.
The site released its 2026-2027 winter weather forecast, predicting a season of snow, bitter cold and wildly contrasting weather patterns across the country. This winter season’s motto is “snow, sleet and surprises,” according to the almanac.
Here’s what’s in store for Illinois.
Farmers’ Almanac winter forecast for Illinois
The Upper Midwest and Great Lakes should see near normal temperatures this winter, along with fast-moving clippers, sudden cold snaps and brief snowy periods interrupted by milder breaks.
The almanac forecasts sudden snow squalls, blustery winds and bursts of bitter cold in the region, with the middle of the country seeing frequent swings between thawing and freezing. This back-and-forth weather pattern could result in rapidly changing road and field conditions.
Overall, the Farmers’ Almanac predicts a cold winter for Illinois spotted with periods of snow.
When is the first day of winter?
The winter solstice takes place on Monday, Dec. 21, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year, according to the Farmers’ Almanac.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Farmers’ Almanac forecasts ‘cold, snowy’ winter in Illinois
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star | USA TODAY Network
