As winter approaches, homeowners should be vigilant about the potential impact of winter storms. The Weather Channel (TWC) has announced its winter storm names for the 2025-26 season, marking the 14th year of this initiative. These names help raise public awareness about significant winter weather events, including blizzards and snowstorms.
The upcoming season features a total of 26 names, starting with Alston. TWC names any “high-impact winter storm with significant snow and/or ice affecting at least one, if not multiple, regions of the country.” Notably, lake-effect snowstorms and pure arctic cold outbreaks will not be included in this naming system. The complete list of names includes:
– Alston
– Bellamy
– Chan
– Devin
– Ezra
– Fern
– Gianna
– Hernando
– Iona
– Joseline
– Kadence
– Louise
– Maizie
– Nell
– Obie
– Peyton
– Quigley
– Rodrigo
– Santiago
– Tyrese
– Ulma
– Viviana
– Wolfgang
– Ximena
– Yashi
– Zeb
While winter storms typically begin to be named in November, none have received a name as of yet for this season. According to TWC, named winter storms generally peak from late January through February.
Winter Outlook and Predictions
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its winter predictions, forecasting colder-than-average conditions in the Appalachians, Southeast, and Ohio Valley. Snowfall is expected to be more substantial in the southern Rockies, eastern Ohio Valley, and parts of the Carolinas. Conversely, regions such as Florida, the Intermountain West, and eastern Desert Southwest are anticipated to experience a wetter season.
Carol Connare, editor at the Almanac, advises homeowners, “Don’t lose track of your snow shovels and umbrellas.” The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center also provides an outlook for winter from December 2025 to February 2026. It indicates that the La Niña phenomenon will likely persist, shifting to a neutral pattern in early 2026 with a 61% chance. For the Upper Mississippi River Valley, this means a winter season marked by unpredictable weather, with varying temperatures and precipitation levels.
Essential Preparations for Homeowners
Regardless of the specific forecast for a region, it is wise for homeowners to undertake several preventive measures as winter approaches. One of the most critical tasks is protecting plumbing from freezing conditions. Surprisingly, the risk of frozen pipes is often highest in southern regions, where colder temperatures are less common, and homes may lack adequate insulation.
Basic precautions can help prevent costly repairs. Homeowners should consider draining exterior hoses, closing foundation vents, and wrapping pipes in foam insulation. Other important tasks include ensuring proper attic insulation to retain heat, cleaning ovens to prevent fire hazards, and clearing gutters to avoid the formation of ice dams.
For a comprehensive list of year-end home maintenance tasks, resources such as Realtor.com® provide valuable checklists. Taking these steps can significantly mitigate the risks associated with winter storms and ensure a safer, more comfortable home during the colder months ahead.
