Winter storm season is officially underway, with two significant storms anticipated during Thanksgiving week. Homeowners should prepare as The Weather Channel has announced its winter storm names for the 2025-26 season. This marks the 14th year the channel has designated names for winter storms, which serve to raise public awareness about impending severe weather.
For this season, The Weather Channel will name any “high-impact winter storm” that brings significant snow or ice to at least one region of the United States. The first storm on the list is named Alston, and in total, there are 26 names assigned for the winter, including notable ones like Gianna, Viviana, and Wolfgang. It is important to note that winter events like lake-effect snowstorms and extreme cold outbreaks are not included in this naming convention.
Winter Forecasts and Expectations
As the season progresses, forecasts suggest that active storm systems are likely to affect various regions across the country during Thanksgiving. Although no storms have yet received names, the most frequent named winter storms usually occur between late January and February.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has already published its winter predictions, indicating that states in the Appalachians, Southeast, and Ohio Valley should prepare for colder-than-average conditions. Increased snowfall is expected in the southern Rockies, eastern Ohio Valley, and parts of the Carolinas. In contrast, areas like Florida and the Intermountain West may experience a wetter winter.
To support these forecasts, the NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC) anticipates that the ongoing La Niña phenomenon will continue, although a shift to a neutral weather pattern is expected by early 2026. For regions such as the Upper Mississippi River Valley, this could mean unpredictable winter weather, with wide variations in temperature and precipitation.
Preparing Homes for Winter Weather
Regardless of the forecast, homeowners are encouraged to take preventative measures as winter approaches. One of the most critical tasks is ensuring that pipes do not freeze. Surprisingly, the risk of frozen pipes is often highest in the southern states, where colder temperatures are less frequent and insulation may be inadequate. Simple precautions such as draining exterior hoses, sealing foundation vents, and applying foam insulation around pipes can prevent costly repairs.
In addition to protecting plumbing, homeowners should also inspect their attic insulation to retain heat, clean their ovens to reduce fire hazards, and clear gutters to prevent ice dams. For a comprehensive list of year-end repairs, resources like Realtor.com provide valuable checklists.
As winter storms loom on the horizon, proactive steps can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and comfort throughout the season.
