Will the U.S. Have a White Christmas?

National Geographic News

December 18, 2002

As Christmas Day approaches, many people across the United States are
wondering if their holiday will be white. Climate researchers at the
National Climate Data Center have created a map of the U.S. showing the
probabilities of snow on Christmas. ( View an enlarged
map >>)

Researchers compiled statistical data from 1961 to 1990 to estimate the likelihood that at least one inch (2.5 centimeters) of snow will fall in any given region on December 25. Not surprisingly, they predict that the odds for deep snow are greatest in northern and mountainous U.S. areas.

Weather patterns across the country in the coming week will also affect the chances of snow over the Christmas holiday.

To track daily snowfall across North America, visit the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Operational Daily Snow Analysis Charts.