For more than 200 years, the editors of the Farmers’ Almanac have released long-range, annual weather predictions based on a formula comparing data found in solar patterns and historical weather conditions with current solar activity. But how accurate have their predictions been so far this winter?
Released last August, the annual winter weather outlook for the 2023-24 season called for a frigid winter with cold temperatures and snowy weather, declaring that “the BRRR is back.” Now, a week into February, temperatures are expected to surpass 50 degrees in Rochester on Friday before dropping back to more seasonal temperatures with highs in the mid-30s next week.
The Farmers’ Almanac prediction predicted snowstorms – with snow, cold rain and frigid temperatures – in the Northeast and New England in mid-February. A large East Coast storm is predicted to bring a “wintry mess” in early March, according to the Almanac. There’s also potential for a late-season snowfall over high terrain in New England in mid-April.