Fall Forecasts Clash: Two Almanacs Predict Opposing Weather

Two prominent almanacs, The Old Farmer's Almanac and the Farmers' Almanac, have issued their fall 2026 weather outlooks. These forecasts present notably divergent predictions for various regions across the United States, despite both publications utilizing distinct, proprietary forecasting methodologies.

The divergence is particularly stark in the Pacific Northwest, with one almanac predicting colder and wetter conditions while the other anticipates cold but dry weather. Similarly, the Southeast shows conflicting outlooks, with one forecast suggesting cooler temperatures and less rain, and the other foreseeing a prolonged summer-like warmth accompanied by storms.

However, the almanacs find common ground in forecasting cooler and wetter conditions for the Northeast and generally dry conditions for the Southwest. Southern Texas is also projected to be warm and wet by both.

Despite these detailed predictions, meteorologists from the National Weather Service and NOAA have raised questions regarding the scientific reliability of highly specific, long-range forecasts made months in advance. They advise that these almanac predictions should not be considered equivalent to official, scientifically-based seasonal forecasts.