‘Doppler’ Dave Speelman: Farmer’s Almanac Winter Prediction

The Farmer’s Almanac is once again revealing its weather outlook for the upcoming winter. The prediction for the southwest (including El Paso) is that we will be colder than normal and receive much less precipitation. It’s also anticipating that we will receive below normal snowfall (we average about 6″ per year).

Whether you believe the Farmer’s Almanac or not, it sure is interesting to read and I always look forward to its prediction.

The almanac’s 2009 edition, which went on sale September 16th, says at least two-thirds of the country can expect colder-than-average temperatures this winter, with only the Far West and Southeast in line for near-normal readings.

“This is going to be catastrophic for millions of people,” said almanac editor Peter Geiger.

The almanac predicts above-normal snowfall for the Great Lakes and Midwest, especially during January and February. The Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions will likely have an unusually wet or snowy February, the almanac said. In contrast, the usually wet Pacific Northwest could be a bit drier than normal in February.

Looking ahead to summer, the almanac foresees near-normal temperatures in most places. But much of the Southwest should prepare for unusually hot weather in June and July, while Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas will get oppressive July heat and humidity.

The almanac attributes its forecasts to reclusive prognosticator Caleb Weatherbee, who uses a secret formula based on sunspots, the position of the planets and the tidal action of the moon.

The almanac is at odds with the National Weather Service, whose trends-based outlook calls for warmer than normal weather this winter over much of the country, including Alaska. The almanac and the weather service are in sync, however, in pointing to a chance of a drier winter in the Northwest.