ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Western North Carolina could be in for a colder and wetter winter, according to the 2025–26 outlook from the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

The publication, which has been issuing long-range forecasts since 1792, is predicting below-normal temperatures across the Appalachian region, including Asheville, along with a “split snow story” — lighter accumulations in the north and heavier snowfall to the south.

For Asheville and surrounding mountain areas, forecasters say the snowiest periods will likely come in late December, late January, early and late February, and mid-March. Residents are urged to prepare for extended cold snaps in mid- and late December, early and late January, and early February.

While the Almanac notes that exact conditions are impossible to predict months in advance, it touts an accuracy rate of about 80% by combining historical weather data with solar activity patterns.

Frost data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration indicates Asheville’s first fall frost typically arrives near Oct. 26.