W
inter storms are already on the horizon, and two major systems loom over Thanksgiving week, so homeowners should brace for the coming weather.

    For the 2025‑26 season, The Weather Channel (TWC) has released its first winter‑storm names in 14 years. While the National Weather Service names tropical cyclones, TWC assigns names to high‑impact snow and ice events to raise public awareness. A storm earns a name if it brings significant snow or ice to one or more regions. TWC has 26 names ready, starting with Alston and ending with Zeb. Lake‑effect snow and pure arctic blasts are excluded from the list.

    Named storms typically appear from late January through February. The season is just beginning, but the Old Farmer’s Almanac already projects colder‑than‑average conditions across the Appalachians, Southeast, and Ohio Valley. Greater snowfall is expected in the southern Rockies, eastern Ohio Valley, and the Carolinas, while Florida, the Intermountain West, and the eastern Desert Southwest should see wetter weather. “Keep your shovels and umbrellas handy,” notes editor Carol Connare.

    NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts that La Niña will persist into the winter but likely shift to a neutral pattern by early 2026 (61% probability). In the Upper Mississippi River Valley, temperatures and precipitation could vary widely, making winter weather unpredictable.

    Before the cold sets in, homeowners should tackle a few key projects. The risk of frozen pipes is highest in southern regions where insulation is often lacking. Simple steps—draining exterior hoses, sealing foundation vents, and wrapping exposed pipes in foam—can prevent costly repairs. Other tasks include checking attic insulation to retain heat, cleaning the oven to avoid fire hazards, and clearing gutters to prevent ice dams. For a comprehensive list of end‑of‑year maintenance, see Realtor.com’s checklist.