Texas, Michigan, Ohio, and Georgia Expected to See Unseasonably Warm Temperatures During Christmas Week, NOAA Forecast Shows
UNITED STATES — Meteorologists say Christmas week will look and feel much different this year, as new NOAA temperature outlooks point to a significant warm-up across much of the country — particularly in Texas, Michigan, Ohio, and Georgia. After one of the coldest starts to December in years, the latest climate models show a widespread return to above-average temperatures beginning around December 21, 2025, and lasting through the holiday week.
NOAA Outlook Shows Broad Warm-Up Across the U.S.
The 8–14 Day Temperature Outlook from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration indicates temperatures 10–20 degrees above normal across most of the Lower 48 states. The strongest warming is forecast across the Southern Plains, Midwest, and Great Lakes, bringing an unexpected turn toward mild weather just in time for Christmas.
Meteorologist Chris Jones said the pattern shift marks a complete reversal from the Arctic outbreaks seen earlier in the month.
“After two weeks of bitter cold and snow, the atmosphere is hitting the reset button,” Jones explained. “Many areas across Texas, the Great Lakes, and the Southeast will feel more like March than December.”
Great Lakes Region: From Snow Drifts to Melting Snowmen
The Great Lakes area — including Michigan and Ohio — saw one of its coldest and snowiest starts to December in decades. However, temperatures are expected to soar 15–20 degrees above normal by the Christmas holiday, melting much of the early snowpack.
“Residents in places like Toledo, Detroit, and Cleveland may trade snow boots for raincoats,” Jones noted. “Instead of a white Christmas, it’s looking like a damp but mild one.”
Southern States to See the Most Pronounced Warmth
Across Texas and Georgia, the upcoming warm-up could feel downright springlike. Cities such as Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, and Savannah are expected to see daytime highs reaching the 70s, with some Gulf Coast locations nearing 80°F.
“This warm spell will be welcome news for travelers and anyone tired of scraping frost off windshields,” Jones said. “But it’s not what you’d call traditional Christmas weather.”
NOAA forecasts show a 60–80% probability of above-normal temperatures across much of the South and Midwest, with the highest confidence centered over the Southern Plains.
Northern U.S. Holds on to Some Chill
The only regions expected to stay near or below normal are parts of northern Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, where colder Canadian air will linger. However, even those areas are unlikely to experience extreme Arctic cold during the holiday week.
Travel and Energy Outlook: Easier Roads, Lower Bills
Meteorologists say the mild pattern should make for improved travel conditions nationwide, reducing the risk of snow-related delays at major airports. The warm spell will also ease heating demands, temporarily lowering energy consumption across much of the country.
“This stretch of weather is a nice break before winter really digs in again,” Jones said. “It’s rare to have a Christmas this mild from Texas to Michigan.”
Pattern Change Expected After the Holiday
Forecasters caution that this warmth won’t last forever. By late December or early January, model trends suggest another potential cold snap returning from Canada.
“Enjoy the mild Christmas while it lasts,” Jones advised. “Winter still has plenty left to say.”
For continuous weather forecasts and regional updates, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
