El Niño and La Niña are two climate patterns that significantly impact global weather conditions. El Niño is characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, typically leading to warmer winters in northern regions, with increased rainfall in southern areas, and even reduced hurricane activity in the Atlantic.

On the other hand, La Niña is marked by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the same region, often causing colder winters in northern areas, leading to drier conditions in the south, and increased hurricane activity in the Atlantic.

For the 2024-2025 Winter Season, La Niña conditions have emerged, and weather experts previously predicted a 70% chance of La Niña persisting through the winter, however with warmer temperatures expected, this will be considered a weak La Niña winter.

In Central New York, including Sharon Springs, this year’s weaker than expected La Niña winter is expected to bring: warmer-than-average temperatures, with normal precipitation. Due to the curve of the partner, this La Niña will result in increased precipitation in the Great Lakes region with that Lake Effect Snow even possible for our region.

While these predictions are just that: predictions, it's essential to remember that La Niña's impacts can vary greatly from year to year. Stay tuned for updates on the changing winter forecast, and get ready for an interesting winter season in Central New York!