NOAA's Fall Forecast: Warm Nationwide With a Wet Southern Tilt
NOAA's Fall Forecast: Warm Nationwide With a Wet Southern Tilt
US · Published Aug 21, 2026
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued its forecast for the fall season (September-November), indicating a nationwide trend towards warmer-than-average temperatures across nearly all 50 states.
The Pacific Northwest is expected to experience the most significant warmth.

Why It's Important?

This extended period of warmth and varied precipitation has significant implications for various sectors. For agriculture, a warmer fall could impact crop maturation, harvest timing, and the need for irrigation, especially in areas predicted to be drier. Farmers will need to monitor soil moisture closely and adjust planting or harvesting schedules accordingly. The increased likelihood of warmer temperatures nationwide could also affect energy consumption, with potentially higher demands for cooling in some regions extending later into the season, while others might see reduced heating needs. Water resource managers in the Southwest and Southeast will be monitoring the expected wetter conditions, which could aid in drought relief but also necessitate vigilance against potential localized flooding. Conversely, the drier outlook for the Northeast and Pacific Northwest could exacerbate existing dry conditions or lead to increased wildfire risk. For outdoor enthusiasts and tourism, the prolonged warmth may extend opportunities for certain activities, but also impact fall foliage timing and intensity. The uncertainty in the central US precipitation could be critical for winter preparations, such as water storage and flood control infrastructure.

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