Farmers' Almanac: US to Have Wet, Mild Winter

It may be the dog days of August, but in a tradition as grand and storied as consulting groundhogs, the Farmers’ Almanac has released its yearly forecast for winter 2024.

The Farmers’ Almanac has come to be a reminder of America’s past. It was first published in 1818. Each year, the Almanac’s authors make a prediction to help farmers plan for the year ahead. The “science” behind its forecast is a closely guarded secret. The Almanac’s official forecaster goes by the pseudonym “Carl Weatherbee.” It uses a special formula to predict the future weather. That method "relies on sunspot activity, tidal action, planetary position and many other factors."   

This year, the Almanac calls for a “Wet Winter Whirlwind!” to engulf much of the US.  

"It definitely looks more wet than white in many areas," Sandi Duncan told USA TODAY. She's the Almanac's editor. "Depending on where you live, there might be more white than wet."  

The Almanac suggests The Great Lakes and Northern Plains should brace for a cold winter. The Northeast is in for a series of storms. And the South can look forward to a “warmish” season.  

Some farmers in the regions may adjust their crop rotations or insulate their barns. That will depend on how much they trust the Almanac. Studies of its history have shown it’s correct about as much as a groundhog seeing its shadow or a coin flip.    

Reflect: How do weather forecasts impact your decisions and plans for the future?

Gif of winter weather from GIPHY.