Here's what to expect in NY

(NEXSTAR) – This winter will bring above-average temperatures to New York, but precipitation will be average, according to new forecasts for the upcoming season.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has released its 2024-25 winter outlook, pointing to a “slowly developing” La Niña that could shape weather across the country from December to February.

“This winter, an emerging La Niña is expected to impact upcoming winter patterns, particularly our precipitation forecasts,” said Jon Gottschalck, head of the Operational Prediction Branch of NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.

This winter may be less predictable than recent ones. Here's why

In New York, temperatures are expected to be warmer than normal between December 2024 and February 2025, according to NOAA forecasts. NOAA estimates there is a 40-50% chance of temperatures being lower than average in the state, while it is less certain in the upper state. Rainfall is expected to be normal and drought is unlikely.

The Pacific Northwest and Great Lakes regions are more likely to see above-average precipitation this season, meaning states like Michigan, Ohio and Indiana could see increased rain and snowfall.

Washington, Oregon and northern Idaho could also experience a wet winter.

Meanwhile, drier than normal conditions could prevail across the South and Southwest – including parts of Florida, Georgia, Arizona and New Mexico. The Southern Plains (Texas, Oklahoma, and a small portion of southwestern Kansas) may also experience below average precipitation.

As for temperatures, NOAA predicts they will be warmer than average for much of the southern United States

This warmth is expected along the Gulf Coast – in states like Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama – and extends along the East Coast through Georgia, the Carolinas and into New England to the north. Warmer than normal temperatures are also expected in parts of the Great Lakes region and Pennsylvania.

Daylight Saving Time Is Ending Soon: What If We Don’t “Revert to the Change” This Year?

On the other hand, cooler than average temperatures are expected for the Pacific Northwest and the northern plains. States such as Washington, Oregon, Montana and North Dakota, as well as some areas of western Alaska, may experience below average temperatures.

(Photo credit: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

For regions experiencing drought conditions, the outlook offers some good and bad news. Drought relief is expected in parts of Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

However, drought is likely to continue in the central and southern plains. Dry conditions are expected to continue in Texas, Kansas and Oklahoma, with little improvement in sight.

Invasive brown stink bugs are everywhere – but for how long?

Parts of the Southwest, including Arizona and New Mexico, could also face prolonged drought, while the Gulf Coast is expected to face new drought conditions.

Although the outlook gives us an idea of ​​what trends to expect this winter, it is not a day-to-day forecast. The forecasts reflect probabilities of seasonal temperatures and precipitation but cannot predict specific weather events. Be sure to check your local weather forecast.

This story includes reporting from PIX11's Emily Rahhal.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Find the latest news, weather, sports and streaming videos on PIX11.