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What Does La Niña Mean For Winter Plans In Columbus? NOAA Has Predictions

Winter is creeping up on us, and NOAA has just dropped its U.S. Winter Outlook, giving us a sneak peek into what to expect in Columbus and across Ohio.

With the forecast covering December 2024 through February 2025, there’s a slowly-developing La Niña in the mix, and it could shake things up a bit. Here’s the lowdown on what we can expect!

Wet and Wild: Ohio’s Winter Forecast

NOAA predicts wetter-than-average conditions for Ohio this winter, especially in the Great Lakes region. While that’s great news for our water supply, it might mean we’re in for some slippery roads and potential flooding. Michael Morgan, Ph.D., NOAA’s assistant secretary of commerce for observation and prediction, says, “Understanding our climate system is essential for making longer-term predictions like the Winter Seasonal Outlook, which provides vital information for many of our partners and the public.”

winter outlook from NOAA showing precipitation
The 2024-2025 U.S. Winter Outlook map for precipitation shows wetter-than-average conditions are most likely across the Great Lakes region of the U.S.. Drier-than-average conditions are forecast for parts of the U.S. Gulf Coast. (Image credit: NOAA)

La Niña to Bring the Storms

This winter’s weather is heavily influenced by La Niña, which is set to develop this fall. Expect a surge of storm systems rolling through Ohio, bringing more moisture than usual. Jon Gottschalck, chief of the Operational Prediction Branch at NOAA, notes, “This winter, an emerging La Niña is anticipated to influence the upcoming winter patterns, especially our precipitation predictions.” So, stock up on those cozy blankets and hot cocoa!

A Warm Twist for the Season

Now, here’s a fun twist: warmer-than-average temperatures are in the forecast for much of the eastern U.S., including Ohio! While we might face the occasional chilly day, overall, we’re looking at a milder winter. The warmest vibes are expected along the Gulf Coast, but it looks like we’ll enjoy some of that warmth here in Columbus too!

winter outlook from NOAA showing temperature
The 2024-2025 U.S. Winter Outlook map for temperature shows the greatest chances for cooler-than-average conditions in the Pacific Northwest of the U.S. (Image credit: NOAA)

Drought Concerns Linger

While we’re getting ready for all that moisture, it’s worth noting that drought concerns are still hanging over many parts of the country, especially in the southern Plains and Gulf Coast. Brad Pugh, operational drought lead with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, warns that “more than a quarter of the land mass in the continental U.S. is currently in at least a moderate drought.” But don’t worry, Ohio’s moisture outlook looks promising, so we might just dodge that bullet!

winter outlook from NOAA showing drought
The 2024-2025 U.S. Winter Outlook map for precipitation shows wetter-than-average conditions are most likely across the Great Lakes region of the U.S.. Drier-than-average conditions are forecast for parts of the U.S. Gulf Coast. (Image credit: NOAA)

High-Tech Forecasting Tools

NOAA is stepping up its game with new forecasting tools designed to keep us in the know this winter. One exciting addition is the Probabilistic Winter Storm Severity Index (WSSI-P), which helps visualize potential winter storm impacts. This means Columbus residents will have better info to navigate whatever the season throws our way!

Stay Prepared, Columbus!

With winter approaching, it’s crucial for Columbus folks to stay on top of the ever-changing weather patterns. Mark your calendars for November 21, when the next three-month outlook will be released—because who doesn’t want to be prepared for snowball fights or cozy nights in?

For the latest on winter weather safety, drought updates, and helpful tips, check out drought.gov and climate.gov. Let’s embrace the beauty of winter in Ohio while being ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store!

Featured image: “Winter skyline of Columbus, Ohio, as seen from James Hospital. Taken on March 21, 2019, by Sixflashphoto. This image is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0