Warmer, Cooler or Snow? Here’s What the Farmer’s Almanac Predicts for Fall 2024

Fall, when the crisp, unmistakable scent of autumn turns everything to gold, will soon be here. For several people, fall is simply magical and officially will be starting on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 8:44 a.m. EDT with the arrival of the fall equinox. The herald of winter and cooler temperatures is a welcome relief from the scorching summer; the question is, when will it get chilly? Will it be warmer this fall? Will there be some snow? The Farmer’s Almanac, as usual, has all the answers, and here’s what it forecasts for fall 2024 in the USA.

What’s Expected for Fall 2024

The 2024 fall season is shaping up to be a mixed bag across the United States, with different regions experiencing a variety of weather patterns. From unseasonably cold air to potential hurricanes, the Farmers’ Almanac’s long-range forecast provides a detailed look at what to expect this autumn. Mother Nature is on cue to paint leaves of deciduous trees, and as trying as that is for those with large backyards, fall is always welcome. However, fall in 2024 might be a tad warmer than usual; that’s what the Farmer’s Almanac says, especially for the western half of the United States!

Cooler and Warmer Regions

No one likes being stumped by bad weather, especially when you’re planning for events in the fall. Understanding these predictions can help residents prepare for the season ahead. Check out the states warmer or cooler according to the Farmer’s Almanac.

Cooler than Average: Southeast Florida, The Lower Lakes, Ohio Valley, Appalachians, and the Atlantic Corridor. Regions in the Northeast, Deep South and the Northeast will have average temperatures in 2024.

Warmer than Average: The Heartland, Pacific Northwest, Intermountain, Texas-Oklahoma, High Plains, Pacific Southwest and Desert Southwest, Alaska, Hawaii.

Read on for regional summarized forecasts and which state is going to see the first fall snowfall.

New England to Get the Country’s First Snowfall

In the Northeast and New England, Fall 2024 is expected to bring a blend of cooler-than-normal temperatures and wet conditions. Early frost and precipitation are a real possibility, particularly in inland areas. This region may also see bouts of unseasonably chilly air, which could disrupt the usual fall foliage season. Coastal areas might experience periods of heavy rain, while northern parts of New England could see the first signs of winter with early snowfall.​

Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Midwest

“Fall will be frosty and wet in the Great Lakes, Midwest region while the temperatures in the North Central region may be downright frigid, with lots of fall flakes and rain,” writes the Almanac.

The Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Midwest are likely to experience a fall season marked by significant temperature swings. Expect unseasonably chilly air to descend from Canada, particularly as the season progresses. Rain and thunderstorms will be frequent, with the possibility of early snow in the northern areas, especially around the Great Lakes. Farmers in this region should prepare for a potentially early end to the growing season due to frost and early winter conditions​. However, dry weather might stick around as Halloween approaches.

Hurricane Alerts in The Southeast U.S.

The Southeast will see cool, stormy conditions in autumn. The Southeast U.S. will need to be on alert for hurricanes, especially early in the fall. The Gulf Coast is at particular risk, with the potential for significant storms before the season transitions to more excellent, more stable weather. By late fall, the region is expected to experience drier conditions with lower humidity, providing relief from the summer heat. However, the threat of severe weather cannot be entirely ruled out.​

Extremes of Weather in the South-Central U.S.

Like the Southeast, the South-Central U.S. faces a heightened risk of hurricanes, particularly along the Gulf Coast. The region will likely see a transition from hot, humid conditions to more relaxed, more comfortable weather as fall progresses. Rain and thunderstorms will be frequent in early fall, but these will gradually give way to drier and cooler conditions as the season advances. Residents in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and surrounding areas should be prepared for potential severe weather​ with plenty of precipitation, including snow in the higher elevations.

A Dry Fall for Northwest U.S.

The Northwest U.S. is expected to have a relatively dry and warm start to fall. The region will experience warm-to-hot temperatures in early autumn, with little rainfall. However, as the season progresses, cooler air will start to move in, leading to a more typical fall weather pattern with increased cloud cover and precipitation. The coastal areas of Oregon and Washington could see early seasonal rains, while inland regions remain dry a bit longer.​

Scare Rainfall and Dry Weather in Southwest U.S.

Most weather forecasts across channels predict hot and dry conditions through much of the fall in the Southwest. This region, including states like Arizona, Nevada, and southern California, is unlikely to see significant changes in weather until late in the season. As temperatures gradually cool, nights will become more comfortable, but the risk of wildfires remains high due to the persistent dryness. Rainfall is expected to be scarce, especially across Colorado, continuing the trend of arid conditions.​

A Cool Fall in the North Central U.S.

In the North Central U.S., fall will bring relief from the summer heat with the arrival of more extraordinary air masses from Canada. The region, which includes states like North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota, may see early snowfall, particularly in October. Thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected in the early part of the season, followed by a transition to more relaxed, drier conditions. The early arrival of winter weather is possible, especially in the northernmost areas.​

October and Halloween

October typically brings clear skies to the Eastern U.S., but this year’s forecast suggests a shift. Expect a significant increase in cloudy and showery days, outnumbering the usual sunny and dry ones. In the Northeast, temperatures will drop swiftly, with a chance of early snow in New England by November. As Halloween approaches, the weather could be unpredictable, so keep an eye on the forecast. Hopefully, the skies will clear for the third consecutive supermoon on October 17, 2024.

The 2024 fall season across the United States will be one of contrasts, with some regions experiencing unseasonably cold conditions and others facing the threat of hurricanes or continuing drought. By understanding these predictions and preparing accordingly, residents can make the most of the season, whether it means enjoying the crisp fall air or bracing for early winter weather.