The Farmers' Almanac just released its prediction for the 2026/2027 winter, while the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center says forecasters are increasingly confident that a "Super El Niño" will impact weather patterns during our cold months. El Niño happens when the water in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean becomes significantly warmer than usual. What Does a Super El Niño Mean For Minnesota's Winter? However, the Minnesota DNR reminds us that El Niño doesn't mean winter is canceled. Farmers' Almanac 2026 Winter Forecast for the Upper MidwestWhile ocean temperature models lean toward a milder winter, the Farmers' Almanac says people in the northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes shouldn't expect a quiet season.