The Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts a Warm and Dry Winter for Most Iowa Homeowners

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its 2025–2026 Winter Forecast, describing the national outlook as “mostly mild—with pockets of wild.”

Editor Carol Connare explains that “most areas will experience near-normal to slightly milder temperatures,” though a few chilly bursts may still roll across the Plains.

For Iowa homeowners, the forecast points to a warmer, drier winter overall—with lighter snow and shorter cold snaps than in years past.

A Calmer Winter Across the Hawkeye State

Iowa falls within the Heartland region in the Old Farmer’s Almanac forecast, which also includes Des Moines, Kansas City, and Omaha. The forecast calls for above-normal temperatures this winter, with the coldest periods expected in mid-December, early and late January.

Precipitation will be below normal across the region, setting the stage for a dry season with fewer major storms. Snowfall will be below normal in northern Iowa and near normal in the south, with the snowiest periods forecast for mid-November, late January, and early February.

Altogether, Iowa can expect a mild winter with brief cooldowns and light snow, making it easier for homeowners to manage heating costs and winter travel. While early and late season flurries may occur, most of the state will enjoy a break from the deep freezes and heavy snowfalls that have defined recent winters.

Home Fixes to Tackle Before Winter Sets In

Even when the outlook looks easygoing, November is the time to prepare your home for the colder months. The Realtor.com® November checklist highlights simple, high-impact home fixes that help homeowners stay safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient all season long.

Start with a safety check—test smoke detectors and replace batteries as Daylight Saving Time ends. If you need new alarms, hire a professional to install hard-wired models, which typically cost $80 to $120 each.

Next, inspect weatherstripping and caulk around windows, doors, and vents. Even a small draft can drive up heating bills when temperatures dip. Home maintenance expert Krystal Rogers-Nelson says sealing leaks “can make a huge difference in keeping you warm and toasty during the winter months and saving a lot of money in utilities.” The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that tightening drafts can reduce annual energy costs by 5% to 30%. Homeowners planning winter updates can use Realtor.com’s mortgage calculator to estimate project costs and monthly budgets.

It’s also smart to restock your emergency supplies before the season begins. Keep flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and canned food on hand for winter storms or power outages. If you haven’t already, test for radon gas—levels often rise in the winter when homes are sealed. Testing kits cost about $20 and can be found at most hardware stores.

Finally, take advantage of the milder weather to prep for the holidays. Launder guest linens, polish serving ware, and stock up on cold-weather essentials such as ice melt, snow scrapers, and firewood. A professional deep cleaning—typically between $200 and $400 depending on home size—can help make entertaining easier once family gatherings begin.

With the Old Farmer’s Almanac forecasting a warm, dry winter, Iowa homeowners can look forward to a quieter, more manageable season. A few November home fixes now will ensure that every household stays cozy, efficient, and ready for those rare “pockets of wild” weather that may still drift through the Midwest.

This article was produced with editorial input from Dina Sartore-Bodo and Gabriella Iannetta.