US Winter Forecast: Snow to Bury Rockies; Slow Onset in East

Though summerlike temperatures kicked off fall in some parts of the United States, winter -- with its cold and snow -- is quickly following. The season will get off to a slow start in the Northeast with only occasional shots of cold early on. The northern Plains and the Rockies, however, will be bitterly cold at times and buried in snow. With the East as an exception, most ski resorts country-wide should not have a problem getting up-and-running this year. This season's precipitation may even bring drought relief to California, replenishing reservoirs and easing water shortages.

Northern Plains, Upper Midwest: Snowy With Blasts of Extreme Cold

Those living in the northern Plains and Upper Midwest should plan for plenty of days requiring snow boots and shovels, as several strong systems are expected to unleash above-normal snow totals. Across the Ohio Valley, Midwest extending toward the central Plains, a wintery mix will accompany an active storm track.
Farther north, across parts of the northern Plains and Upper Midwest, snow will be favored over rain, resulting in higher snow totals in December into January.
Frequent arctic blasts will take aim at the Dakotas and Minnesota late in the season, leading to some extreme cold at times. In late December and into January, the Midwest may be in an ideal position for a big storm. Conditions could align to bring Chicago a winter storm in time for the holidays.
Des Moines, Minneapolis, Omaha and just northwest of Kansas City can each expect above-normal snowfall this season.