LOS ANGELES, Calif. – NOAA’s Winter 2025–2026 outlook, released Thursday, Oct. 16, points to another warm, dry season for Southern California — with limited snow chances and below-normal rainfall likely through February. The Climate Prediction Center’s maps show above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation for much of the Southwest, reflecting the continued influence of La Niña.
According to the National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard, “We’re expecting fewer winter storms overall, especially across coastal and inland valleys. The pattern favors long dry stretches and mild afternoons.” While cooler nights will develop in January, widespread rain or snow is unlikely outside of brief passing systems.
Mountain areas, including Big Bear, Wrightwood, and Mount Pinos, may still see occasional snow events, but totals are expected to remain below average. The dry trend raises concerns about renewed drought stress and early-season fire risk if offshore winds strengthen later in winter. Caltrans advises mountain travelers to remain cautious during isolated snowstorms, especially along I-15, I-5, and Highway 18.
Forecasters expect the mild pattern to persist into March 2026, with only brief intrusions of colder air. NOAA notes that water conservation remains critical as reservoirs across the state start the year below average.
For Southern California, Winter 2026 looks to continue the region’s dry streak — a mild, mostly sunny season with few major storms but ongoing drought and fire concerns.
