USA National Forecast

February Outlook: Will You Stay Stuck In Winter Or Are Springlike Temperatures On Your Horizon?

The last full month of winter will bring arctic cold air to many, while others will begin to warm up. Here’s what you should expect this February.

Here’s Your February Outlook

Love is in the air as we head into February, but will Mother Nature break your heart?

Here’s the latest look at what to expect from February in terms of temperature and precipitation.

Temperature Outlook

Arctic Cold Air Lingers In The North: Much of the northern tier of the country is forecast to see below-average temperatures, with the Northeast and upper Michigan seeing the most below-average temperatures. Average highs in these regions are typically in the 20s and 30s, so freezing temperatures aren’t leaving anytime soon.

Springlike Temperatures For Southwest: Meanwhile, much of the Southern tier of the country will see warmer-than-average temperatures, with the Southwest being farthest above average. Temperatures in this region vary greatly by altitude, with average February highs ranging from the 30s to the 70s. In fact, much of the West will continue to be above average, which does not bode well for skiers and snowboarders.

(MORE: February Weather Changes You Can Typically Expect)

Precipitation Outlook

A Wet Northwest Continues: Similar to the temperature pattern, much of the northern tier is forecast to have a wetter-than-average February. With colder temperatures, this will mean more snow for the region. The Pacific Northwest’s wet season will continue as they will see the most above-average precipitation.

(MORE: How To Shovel Snow Safely)

Drier Conditions For Gulf Coast: The majority of the country will see near-normal precipitation with the exception being the Southeast, particularly around the Gulf Coast, where drier-than-average weather is expected.

What weather are you hoping for this February? Let us know below!

Miriam Guthrie graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with an undergraduate degree in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and is now a meteorology intern with weather.com while working toward her master’s.