New Yorkers, get ready — the snow is coming back with a vengeance. Meteorologists are warning that the upcoming 2025–2026 winter season could be one of the snowiest in recent years, with some parts of the state potentially seeing up to 100 inches of snow.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac and AccuWeather both agree: “Chill, snow, repeat” will be the rhythm of this winter. From Buffalo to the Bronx, residents are being urged to stock up on snow shovels, coats, and patience.
New York Snowfall Forecast 2025–2026: Overview
| Forecast Authority | Prediction Summary |
|---|---|
| AccuWeather (Oct 2025) | NYC: 17–21 inches of snow (↑ from 12.9” in 2024–25) |
| Old Farmer’s Almanac | “Chill, snow, repeat” winter with frequent storms |
| Buffalo (Western NY) | 90–100 inches expected — among the highest totals nationwide |
| La Niña Probability | 71 % (cooler, wetter pattern from Oct–Dec 2025) |
| Average NYC Snowfall | 29.8 inches (long-term average) |
| Temperature Trend | Near-normal temps but more snow events |
| First Snowfall (Est.) | Late Oct to early Nov in upstate NY |
How Bad Will the 2025–26 Winter Be for New York?
According to AccuWeather’s seasonal outlook, New York City will experience significantly more snow than last year, though totals may still fall short of historical averages. The city could see 17–21 inches in total — well above last winter’s 12.9 inches, but below the 30-inch long-term mean.
However, farther west, things look very different. Meteorologists expect Buffalo and western New York to be buried under 90 to 100 inches of snow, thanks to lake-effect systems powered by cold air sweeping over the Great Lakes.
“Snowfall is projected to be higher than last winter in parts of the Northeast,”
said AccuWeather in its latest bulletin. “New York will experience frequent snow bursts and temperature dips that could make travel difficult from December through February.”Also Read
Qatar Permit Visa 2025: Apply Online, Fees, Processing Time & Age Limit Explained
Month-by-Month Outlook for New York (Estimated)
| Month | Temperature Trend | Snowfall Outlook | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 2025 | Below-normal | Light snow early in upstate regions | First measurable snow likely by early Nov |
| December 2025 | Cold & stormy | Moderate snow across NY | Early-season Nor’easter risk |
| January 2026 | Well below average | Heavy snow statewide | Buffalo, Syracuse may see blizzards |
| February 2026 | Fluctuating | Repeated mid-week storms | Short thaws followed by refreezes |
| March 2026 | Slightly warmer | Late-season wet snow | Storm potential around mid-month |
La Niña Could Be the Game-Changer
The Climate Prediction Center projects a 71 % chance of La Niña influencing U.S. weather from October through December 2025. La Niña — the cool phase of the Pacific Ocean’s El Niño–Southern Oscillation — tends to deliver colder, snowier winters across the northern U.S., especially the Northeast and Great Lakes.
“La Niña winters often bring stronger lake-effect snow bands,” explained meteorologist Paul Pastelok of AccuWeather. “Buffalo and upstate New York should brace for multiple feet of snow — while coastal cities like New York may still face icy nor’easters.”
How to Stay Safe This Winter?
Freezing temperatures can turn deadly fast. When wind chills dip below zero, frostbite can occur in under 30 minutes, and hypothermia can set in when the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C).
Tips from Emergency Services:
- Dress in layers: Base (thermal), insulating (wool/fleece), and outer (waterproof shell).
- Avoid alcohol before going out: It speeds up heat loss.
- Keep blankets, flashlights, and extra batteries in your car.
- Check on elderly neighbors or those without heating.
Regional Snowfall Comparison (Forecast 2025–26)
| Region | Expected Snowfall (inches) | Change from Last Year |
|---|---|---|
| New York City (Central Park) | 17–21 “ | +5 to +8 “ |
| Buffalo | 90–100 “ | +10 to +15 “ |
| Syracuse | 85–95 “ | +8 “ |
| Albany | 45–55 “ | +5 “ |
| Long Island | 8–12 “ | Slightly above normal |
| Rochester | 75–85 “ | +10 “ |
Quick Facts
- The earliest snow in New York’s history fell on October 10, 1979, in the Adirondacks.
- The record NYC snowfall was 58.5 inches in 1995–96.
- Buffalo’s snowiest winter hit 199.4 inches in 1976–77.
- Lake Erie’s water temperature this fall is 2 °F warmer than average — fueling more lake-effect snow potential.
FAQs
When will NYC see its first snow in 2025?
Likely between late November and early December, with flurries possible in late October upstate.
Will 2025–26 be colder than last winter?
Temperatures are forecast to be near normal, but more frequent cold fronts mean colder feels.
How much snow will Buffalo get?
Up to 100 inches — among the highest in the U.S. this year.
What’s driving the heavier snow?
The developing La Niña pattern and stronger Arctic air outbreaks.
Is this winter dangerous for travel?
Yes — multiple midweek snow events are expected to disrupt highways and flights from December through February.
The Big Picture
This winter, New York will be a study in contrasts — with blinding snow squalls upstate and icy nor’easters downstate.
The bottom line: grab your shovel early. With La Niña strengthening and snowfall forecasts surging, 2025–26 is shaping up to be one of the snowiest winters in recent memory for the Empire State.
