As winter 2025-2026 approaches, Rhode Islanders are eyeing the season with curiosity—and some uncertainty—as weather forecasts present conflicting views on what to expect. The question on many minds: will the Ocean State face a harsh winter filled with snow and cold, or will it be a milder, drier stretch? Forecasts from the Farmers’ Almanac, AccuWeather, the Old Farmer’s Almanac, and NOAA paint notably different pictures, making this winter’s outlook a ‘wild ride’ indeed.
Farmers’ Almanac Calls for a Snowy, Cold Season
The Farmers’ Almanac winter forecast is unambiguous in its message for New England: prepare for a cold and snow-filled season. According to their predictions, the coldest temperatures will stretch from the Northern Plains right into New England, with New Englanders likely to see frequent snowstorms throughout the winter. Of particular note is a forecasted significant cold snap in mid-January and another in mid-February, with heavy snow expected especially between February 8th and 11th.
Snow could even arrive early this year, with the northernmost parts of New England potentially experiencing snowfall before the official winter start on December 21, 2025. Snow enthusiasts can look forward to a season with recurring storms, although along the Atlantic Coast, rain may mix with snow at times.
AccuWeather Warns of a Stormy, ‘Bookend’ Winter
AccuWeather’s extended forecast offers a somewhat complementary but more regionally varied outlook. Rather than focusing in on Rhode Island specifically, the agency’s predictions encompass a broad swath of the Northeast and central U.S., revealing a pattern of active, stormy weather at the season’s start and end. Early-season storms are expected to move from Canada through the Midwest toward the mid-Atlantic and New England, with some intensifying into nor’easters.
For Rhode Island, snow accumulation could be higher than last winter’s, but total snow may still fall short of historical averages due in part to storms that could alternately bring rain and snow, particularly in mid- to late winter. The Northeast may see more intense storms by late winter, contributing to a dynamic and potentially challenging season ahead.
Old Farmer’s Almanac Suggests a Milder, Dryer Winter
In sharp contrast, the Old Farmer’s Almanac paints a decidedly different picture for Rhode Island and the entire New England region. Their extended forecast anticipates a mild and dry winter, suggesting that harsh cold spells and frequent snow may be off the table. For residents hoping for a less severe season, this forecast offers some reassurance.
NOAA Offers a Neutral Stance
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) forecast maintains a middle ground, indicating that New England has equal chances of experiencing either above-average or below-average precipitation this winter. This suggests a degree of unpredictability that coincides with the variance seen in other forecasts.
What Does This Mean for Rhode Island?
With these differing forecasts, Rhode Islanders should be prepared for a range of possibilities. The Farmers’ Almanac hints at a snowy, chilly winter that could satisfy snow sports enthusiasts, while the Old Farmer’s Almanac leans towards a more temperate season. AccuWeather adds complexity with its outlook of an active storm season, especially at the edges, leaving the exact amount of snow uncertain.
Winter officially begins on December 21, 2025, and ends on March 20, 2026. Residents would be wise to monitor evolving forecasts closer to the season. Given the mixed predictions, flexibility and readiness for both cold and mild conditions may be the best strategy this winter.
In Summary
Rhode Island faces a winter forecast wrapped in contrasts:
- Farmers’ Almanac: Cold, snow-filled, early snow, significant cold snaps
- AccuWeather: Active, stormy, potential nor’easters, mixed rain and snow events
- Old Farmer’s Almanac: Mild, dry, less snow expected
- NOAA: Equal chances for above or below-average precipitation
With winter’s first flurries still months away, it remains a wait-and-see situation. Whether bundling up for snowstorms or enjoying milder breezes, Rhode Islanders can anticipate an intriguing season ahead.
