The Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts a Scorching Hot Summer—What to Expect in Your Area

While we're all still enjoying the cherry blossoms and cooler spring temperatures, a hot summer is on the way, and it's best to start preparing now.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac just released its official summer 2026 predictions, offering a broad look at the anticipated weather conditions across 18 regions.

According to the forecast, much of the United States is expected to have a hotter-than-normal summer, with the heat intensifying as the season progresses. Early summer may feel typical in some regions, but July and August are predicted to bring more widespread and persistent warm temperatures, especially across the southern and eastern United States.

However, the Upper Midwest and Heartland are expected to have cooler-than-normal temperatures or more mixed patterns throughout the season.

Precipitation patterns are expected to be less consistent this year. Much of the country is forecast to experience drier-than-average conditions, particularly across the East, the interior West, and parts of the High Plains. But the Heartland, Gulf Coast, Lower Lakes, and Pacific Northwest may see periods of heavier rain mixed throughout the season.

Related Stories

A Rare Comet Makes Its Closest Approach to Earth Soon—Here's How to See It

A Major Pollen Surge Is Coming—These 20 US Cities Will Be Hit Hardest

Some areas, such as parts of the Atlantic Corridor and Florida, are expected to experience a mix of hot and dry conditions. At the same time, the Lower Lakes region could see both heat and increased rainfall over the course of the season. In the Northeast, conditions may vary by location, with northern areas trending wetter and southern areas drier.

The heat is expected to build gradually throughout the summer, with temperatures trending above normal as the season progresses. While some regions may start closer to typical early-season conditions, warmer-than-average weather will become more widespread over time, peaking in July and August, The Old Farmer’s Almanac says.

This forecast can help guide the timing of outdoor projects and preparations for staying cool as the summer heat approaches.