The end of the year brings climate warnings for millions of people in the United States. According to reports from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)Between December 31 and the early hours of January 1, 2026, a range of weather systems will impact various regions of the country. Forecasts indicate heavy rainfall on the West Coast, flooding risk in Southern California and snow episodes in parts of the Northeast influenced by the “lake effect.”
Experts emphasize that the scenario primarily affects residents and travelers in coastal areas and areas near the Great Lakes, while other regions are experiencing milder conditions for the time being. NOAA warns that the combination of low temperatures and snow accumulation could cause particular complications along routes in the northern part of the state New York and Pennsylvaniaalthough no significant gatherings are expected in New York City.
In CaliforniaThe weather forecast switches to alarms again after the previous week’s storms. ABC News points out Fresh rains will reach the south of the state on Dec. 31 and continues the following day in cities including Los Angeles and San Diego. The Weather Channel Accumulations are forecast to exceed 50 millimeters in certain areas, with a risk of sudden flooding in urban areas and valleys saturated by recent rainfall.
In parallel, the Northeast is bracing for snowfall that will accompany the advance of cold air over the unfrozen waters of the Great Lakes. NOAA estimates that locations in western New York state, such as Orchard Park, could record between 20% and 20% 30 and 90 centimeters of snow during the holidaysa volume that can impact transfers and road maintenance tasks.
A multi-day heavy lake effect snow event is expected downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario through New Year’s Day. There is increasing confidence that snow squalls could lead to bursts of snow and gusty winds on New Year’s Eve. Visit https://t.co/VyWINDk3xP for the latest information. pic.twitter.com/1BUKgJDaxd
—National Weather Service (@NWS) December 30, 2025
For the celebrations in Times Square, the forecast suggests temperatures near 0°C and a low chance of precipitation. Authorities do not expect the central New Year’s event to change, but recommend appropriate accommodations and caution in the event of possible transport delays.
The climate outlook also has an impact on the operation of air and rail routes. ABC News points out that the main airports in the West and Northeast are continuing normal operations, despite airlines advising against it Check flight status when weather conditions change. In California and New York, emergency management offices are asking Avoid unnecessary trips in endangered areas and have basic supplies in case of emergencies.
NOAA models and The Weather Channel They forecast that rain could continue on the West Coast until at least January 2, while wintry conditions with intermittent snowfall in lake effect areas will persist in the Northeast. The center and south of the country, on the other hand, experience more stable days with temperatures above the seasonal average.
Authorities continue to monitor the development of the rain and snow system and reiterate the call for Follow official reports before planning any trips or outdoor activities for the New Year.
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