The Old Farmer's Almanac, the oldest continuously published periodical in the U.S. since 1792, released its 2025 fall forecast using a blend of solar science, climatology, and meteorology. The publication relies on historical weather patterns, sunspot activity, and atmospheric trends to project regional outlooks across the country.

Warmth Across the West and South

Most regions-including the Southeast, Florida, Deep South, Heartland, Texas-Oklahoma, High Plains, Intermountain West, Pacific Northwest, Pacific Southwest, and Alaska-are expected to experience above-average temperatures and below-average precipitation this fall. This could extend growing conditions in some areas but may increase stress on water resources and forage availability.

The Pacific Northwest is an exception in terms of rainfall, where wetter conditions are forecast for October despite a warmer outlook overall.

Cooler Weather in the Northeast

The Northeast, Appalachians, Lower Lakes, Ohio Valley, Upper Midwest, Desert Southwest, and Hawaii are predicted to be cooler than usual. The Northeast, for instance, is expected to average 59°F in September and 46°F in October, with below-normal rainfall at 3.5 inches and 2.5 inches respectively.

These cooler, drier conditions could enhance autumn foliage, offering a bright seasonal display for agri-tourism and farm-based markets.

Hurricane Season Still Active

The Almanac warns that hurricane activity remains above average, with a high count of named storms anticipated through the official end of the season in November. This poses ongoing risk to coastal and southern farming operations, particularly in vulnerable lowland areas.

Implications for Agriculture Professionals

Crop Planning: Warmer, drier conditions across key production zones may necessitate earlier harvests or staggered fall planting. Greater reliance on crop insurance and irrigation infrastructure is likely.

Livestock Management: Extended heat and dry forage conditions may heighten stress on grazing systems, impacting animal health and feed costs.

Input Costs & Supply Chain: Drought pressure could raise the price and availability of forage, water, and energy inputs, straining profitability margins.

Precision and Sustainable Agriculture: The forecast reinforces the need for precision agriculture tools, soil moisture sensors, and climate-smart farming techniques to manage increasingly volatile fall conditions.

Policy Outlook: Persistent drought or hurricane-related damage may trigger federal assistance, disaster relief requests, and adjustments in the Farm Bill discussions this cycle.

A Familiar Forecast With a Modern Twist

Sarah Perreault, managing editor of The Old Farmer's Almanac, emphasized the Almanac's enduring role: "The Old Farmer's Almanac is the original guide to living well... Every fall, it pops up at local stores, and although it is brand new each year, it isn't changing."

This year's edition puts it plainly: "Your trek to the pumpkin patch may be a bit steamy this year." That message speaks volumes about how climate variability continues to reshape seasonal norms-and how agriculture must keep pace.