Report · Dog care & advice

What NOAA’s winter outlook can tell dog owners

NOAA’s December–February outlook favors wetter conditions across much of the South and East. Use it to plan alternatives, then use local forecasts for the actual walk.

By GroomNear

Published 7 November 2026

Updated 7 November 2026

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NOAA’s October 15 winter outlook describes December 2026 through February 2027. It favors wetter-than-average conditions across much of the southern US and the East Coast and warmer-than-average conditions in many northern areas. Those are shifts in the odds for a three-month period. The outlook leaves plenty of room for individual storms, cold spells and dry days. It cannot tell you whether a dog walk in your neighborhood will be safe on a particular morning. NOAA 2026–27 US winter outlook

Plan the alternative while the path is dry

If your usual loop depends on a creek crossing, a low trail or an unlit shoulder, decide where you’ll go when water or poor visibility makes it unusable. Think through a short outdoor route and a way to occupy the dog indoors when the day’s weather calls for both. For trips to a groomer, allow time to reschedule if travel advisories affect your route.

The day before, and again before heading out, use your local National Weather Service forecast and alerts. Check the park or local authority for closures. The October outlook is most helpful when it prompts that preparation. Your local forecast and the conditions in front of you determine which plan to use. National Weather Service local forecasts and warnings