Wilmington, OH – A prolonged stretch of above-normal temperatures is expected to continue across Ohio and much of the central United States through the remainder of the year and into early January, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters with the NWS Wilmington office say temperature outlooks for both the 6–10 day and 8–14 day periods strongly favor warmer-than-average conditions across the Ohio Valley, Midwest, Plains, and much of the eastern U.S. The outlooks cover the period from December 26 through January 3.
The strongest signal for above-normal temperatures is centered over the central and southern Plains, extending northeast into Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, and Michigan. While exact daily highs will vary, the pattern suggests continued mild winter weather, with fewer prolonged cold snaps than typically seen in late December and early January.
Meteorologists note that warmer-than-normal conditions do not rule out brief cold spells, but the overall trend favors temperatures running above seasonal averages for an extended period. This could impact energy usage, winter recreation, and snow potential, especially across lower elevations.
For the Ohio Valley, the mild pattern may help support generally favorable travel conditions around the New Year holiday, though officials caution that winter weather can still develop quickly if the pattern shifts.
Residents across Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, western Pennsylvania, and neighboring states are encouraged to stay informed as the new year approaches, especially if travel or outdoor plans are scheduled.
