La Niña Forecast Points to Cooler, Wetter Winter for Northern Plains

Seasonal climate outlook for December 2025 to February 2026 shows warmer temperatures expected in the southern United States and cooler conditions in the north. Precipitation is predicted to be above average in the northern regions, with drier conditions in the south.

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The Northern Plains region, including central and northeast South Dakota, is being advised to prepare for a winter season with a higher likelihood of below-average temperatures and above-average precipitation, according to the latest Winter Outlook (December 2025 – February 2026) from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Aberdeen.

The NWS attributes this outlook to the presence of La Niña conditions, which are favored to persist throughout the winter before likely transitioning back to neutral conditions early in 2026. Historically, La Niña events favor a cooler and wetter pattern for this region.

Temperature and Precipitation Outlook

The national outlook indicates that cooler-than-average temperatures are slightly favored from the Pacific Northwest, across the Northern Plains, and into the western Great Lakes region. Local analysis for the region notes that approximately 77% of weak La Niña events have resulted in colder-than-normal conditions for this area.

This cooler winter forecast marks a shift from recent months, as temperatures across the area have been near or above normal through the summer and early fall.

The forecast for wetter-than-average precipitation is favored for the Northern Plains, continuing a pattern of increased moisture experienced throughout the summer. Several local sites, including Watertown, Milbank, Sisseton, and Wilmot, reported their wettest summer on record this year.

Call for Winter Preparedness

Regardless of the specific forecast, the NWS urges all residents, businesses, and public safety officials to prepare for the upcoming season immediately.

South Dakota’s designated Winter Weather Preparedness Day is October 22, serving as a reminder for the community to review safety plans, prepare vehicles, and stock up on emergency supplies. The NWS is actively promoting winter weather safety resources and encourages local partners, including emergency management and media, to help improve the region’s readiness and resilience against extreme winter weather.

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