Each year, just as summer is coming to a close, the Farmers' Almanac releases a long range preview of the winter ahead and you may not like what they're saying about the coming months in the Tar Heel State. The upcoming winter 2020 season promises, according to the Almanac, to include a little of everything. But the one thing that should remain steady throughout is an above-average amount of precipitation - in all forms.
The upcoming winter is being dubbed a Polar Coaster because the temperatures are expected to be up and down so often we may feel like we're on a wild ride.
So what does it all mean?
It means that from the mountains to the sea, it will likely rain — or snow! — for a good portion of the winter, if the Farmers' Almanac is correct with its predictions.
One thing the prediction doesn't give us is how often the temperatures will swing up and down. But anyone who's lived in a snowy climate for long enough knows that mixing snow on the ground with some sunshine in the middle of the day can lead to some pretty hazardous driving conditions, especially after the sun goes down again.
According to the long range winter forecast from the Almanac, the worst of the frigid, cold, and snowy days will occur in early January and continue into February. During this time, we can look forward to blustery, blistery cold temps in much of the state. Combine that with the above-average precipitation, and we can expect a wintry wonderland.
That's a reassuring nod for skiers who want to go ahead and plan a getaway in the mountains!
However, for everyone else, depending upon where you live in the Tar Heel State, January (and particularly the first two weeks) should be a wild ride.
After the long days of summer, we always enjoy the Farmers' Almanac winter weather predictions — but ask us again come January and we may have a slightly altered opinion.
How do you feel about the Farmers' Almanac extended outlook for winter 2020?
The Farmers' Almanac (not to be confused with the Old Farmers' Almanac) has been issuing long-range weather predictions for more than 100 years. Since 1818, the Farmer's Almanac has issued a winter weather outlook and claims it is surprisingly accurate. Their methods? They rely on a set of rules created back in 1818 by the first publisher. How accurate is the annual outlook? Some say 80%. What kind of winter 2020 weather do you want to see in North Carolina?
Want your very own copy of the Farmers' Almanac? Get it here.
Planning ahead for some outdoor fun this winter? Check out these 10 trails perfect for winter hiking in North Carolina!
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