Some of you hoping for a change in January may be disappointed as the country has some substantial areas of above and below average temperatures. Discover what the nation's regions will see.

A consistent wind pattern has set up across the Great Lakes that will continue to produce bands of lake-effect snow through New Year’s Eve, potentially adding an additional 2 feet of snow for the snowbelts in New York and Pennsylvania. Strong winds gusting up to 35 mph combined with heavy snow could cause poor visibility on the roads, potentially making travel hazardous. A frontal system moving through the Northeast could also prompt snow squall warnings overnight into New Year’s Day, and it could even bring a few flakes to New York City for the ball drop to ring in 2026.

A multiday flood threat will return to the already soaked California starting Wednesday, and could last through the weekend and potentially into next week. Unfortunately, rain will impact many New Year’s Eve outdoor festivities, so plan to bring the rain gear with you. Rain will become more widespread Wednesday night into Thursday. Locally heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms will be possible in and around the LA basin early Thursday morning. Can’t rule out an isolated tornado across Southern California, so please stay weather aware if planning to go to the Rose Parade in Pasadena.

While some countries kicked off the New Year with spectacular fireworks celebrations, other nations chose more subdued, traditional ways to welcome 2026. Do you have any special New Year’s Eve celebrations or rituals?

After a weekend of heavy snow and freezing temperatures, ice crystals and sunlight put on a dazzling show in the sky over Graceville, Minnesota. Despite wind chills as low as -25, Carole Brauer captured beautiful video of the phenomena.