As of December 12, 2025, the snow weather forecast across the United States shows widespread winter activity, with several regions preparing for heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and travel disruptions through the weekend. From the Midwest to the Northeast, a series of fast-moving winter systems is expected to bring measurable snowfall, while parts of the West continue to deal with mountain snow and strong winds.
Here’s the latest verified update on current snow conditions, regional breakdowns, and what Americans can expect in the coming days.
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National Overview: Cold Fronts and Active Storm Tracks
A strong Arctic cold front sweeping across the northern U.S. is driving the latest wave of snow and frigid temperatures. The system began moving through the Northern Plains late Thursday and is now spreading across the Great Lakes and Northeast.
Meteorologists have confirmed that:
- A low-pressure system is strengthening over the Great Lakes region, enhancing snow bands across Michigan, Wisconsin, and upstate New York.
- Wind chills are dropping below zero in several northern states, including North Dakota, Minnesota, and Montana.
- Lake-effect snow continues around the Great Lakes, producing locally higher snow totals through Friday.
This is one of the coldest and snowiest patterns of the season so far, marking a sharp change after relatively mild conditions earlier this month.
Midwest: Heavy Snow and Hazardous Travel
The Midwest is currently under Winter Storm Warnings and Advisories, as snowfall intensifies across multiple states.
Snowfall Totals (as of Friday Morning)
- Minnesota: 5–8 inches reported in Minneapolis suburbs.
- Wisconsin: Up to 9 inches in central counties, with blowing snow reducing visibility.
- Illinois: 2–4 inches across northern regions, including Chicago’s northwestern suburbs.
- Michigan: Up to 10 inches possible in western and northern areas.
Strong northwesterly winds are expected to create drifting snow and hazardous driving conditions on major routes, including Interstates 90, 94, and 35.
Motorists are being urged to limit non-essential travel, as road conditions are expected to deteriorate further overnight with temperatures falling below 20°F.
Northeast: Weekend Snow and a Potential Coastal System
The Northeast snow weather forecast shows a developing system bringing accumulating snow late Friday into Saturday. Forecasters are closely monitoring a coastal low forming off the Mid-Atlantic coast, which could intensify as it moves northward.
Expected impacts by region:
- New York (upstate): 6–10 inches of snow likely in Albany and the Adirondacks.
- New England: Moderate to heavy snow for Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, especially inland.
- Boston area: 2–5 inches possible by Saturday evening, with colder air arriving behind the storm.
- Pennsylvania and New Jersey: Light snow early Saturday, mixing with sleet in southern areas.
Strong winds along the coast may lead to blowing snow and minor coastal flooding. By Sunday, the system is expected to move offshore, leaving behind cold, dry conditions.
The South: Rain, Not Snow — For Now
While most southern states will avoid major snowfall this week, the arrival of cold air could bring freezing rain and frost to parts of the Tennessee Valley and the Carolinas.
Current highlights:
- Tennessee and northern Georgia: Rain changing to sleet in higher elevations by late Saturday.
- Carolinas: Overnight lows dropping near freezing, with patchy frost in rural areas.
- Texas Panhandle: Light snow showers possible early Sunday morning.
Despite limited snow accumulation, travel delays are still possible due to icy conditions, particularly on bridges and elevated roadways.
The West: Ongoing Mountain Snowfall
The western U.S. snow weather forecast continues to show active conditions, particularly in higher elevations.
Rocky Mountains and Intermountain West
- Colorado: Mountain passes expecting 6–12 inches of fresh snow, especially near Vail and Aspen.
- Utah: Up to 8 inches in the Wasatch Range, improving ski conditions but impacting travel.
- Wyoming and Idaho: Strong winds creating areas of blowing and drifting snow.
Pacific Northwest and California
A new Pacific system is bringing fresh snow to the Cascades and Sierra Nevada ranges.
- Washington and Oregon Cascades: 6–10 inches through Saturday.
- Northern California (Lake Tahoe region): 10–14 inches at higher elevations.
Road closures and chain requirements remain in effect for several mountain highways.
Temperature Outlook: Coldest Stretch of the Season
Beyond the snowfall, the next several days will feature bitter cold temperatures across much of the country.
- Northern Plains: Highs in the single digits, lows dropping to -10°F in some areas.
- Midwest: Daytime highs staying between 15°F and 25°F.
- Northeast: Lows in the teens with wind chills below zero.
- South: Temperatures dropping 10–15 degrees below average, though above freezing in most cities.
This Arctic blast is expected to linger into early next week before moderating slightly by mid-December.
Air Travel and Road Impacts
The snow weather forecast has already caused travel disruptions at several major airports, particularly in Chicago, Minneapolis, Boston, and New York City. Airlines have issued waivers for passengers affected by weather delays through Sunday.
Highways most affected include:
- Interstate 90: From South Dakota through New York.
- Interstate 80: Across the Midwest and into Pennsylvania.
- Interstate 70: Especially through the Rockies and parts of the Midwest.
Drivers are advised to keep emergency kits, check road conditions before departure, and prepare for extended travel times.
Looking Ahead: Next Week’s Outlook
Early forecasts for the week of December 15–20 suggest continued winter activity, though with some regional variation.
- The Pacific Northwest may see another round of mountain snow by midweek.
- The Midwest could face a brief break before another system develops next weekend.
- The Northeast is likely to remain cold with scattered snow showers early in the week.
- The South and Southwest should stay mostly dry, though temperatures will remain cooler than average.
No major blizzards are currently projected, but forecasters emphasize that new systems could develop quickly along active jet stream patterns.
Safety Tips for Winter Conditions
With much of the country under winter weather advisories, officials are urging residents to take safety precautions:
- Keep extra blankets, flashlights, and food in your car.
- Charge phones and prepare for potential power outages.
- Dress in layers when outdoors.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during active snowfall or ice conditions.
Local authorities recommend staying updated with community alerts and verified weather updates as conditions evolve.
Final Thoughts
The snow weather forecast for mid-December 2025 confirms that winter has fully arrived across much of the U.S. With widespread snowfall, frigid air, and travel disruptions in several regions, Americans are bracing for a true seasonal blast. Stay informed, drive safely, and prepare for a cold but beautiful stretch of winter weather ahead.
How is the snow looking in your area? Share your local conditions and experiences in the comments below!
