The U.S. saw notable climate extremes in 2025. Spring ranked as the second-warmest in the 131-year record, averaging 3.2°F above normal, while precipitation was above average overall, with heavy rains across the south and the Ohio Valley, contrasting with drought in the west.

Looking ahead, NOAA’s winter outlook signals a weak La Niña pattern, favoring colder conditions in the Northern Plains, while the southern tier and East Coast lean to warmer-than-average temperatures. Precipitation is expected to be above normal in the Great Lakes and the Pacific Northwest, but drier across the southeast U.S.

Drought is expected to persist across the southwest, deep south, and portions of the northeast.

For commercial and industrial customers, these trends underscore the importance of proactive energy planning. Expect elevated electricity loads during heat waves and potential volatility in natural gas markets as winter cold snaps emerge.

For more: NOAA Winter Outlook 2025-2026