Strong El Niño Will Bring Snowier 2026-27 Ski Season
Meteorologists forecast increased precipitation and storminess across the West for the upcoming ski season.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Forecasts
Live Poll
Based on the predicted El Niño, is now a good time to book winter ski trips?
Forecasters at OpenSnow predict a snowy 2026-27 ski season driven by what may be the strongest El Niño pattern in 50 years. This weather event is expected to shift the jet stream and increase the likelihood of late-season precipitation.
Why it matters
The transition to a strong El Niño pattern offers hope for a recovery after last winter produced one of the worst snowpacks on record for the American West. Increased storm activity could provide essential relief to regional water supplies and ski resorts.
Historical data shows El Niño winters frequently yield high snowfall, with 1982-83 levels exceeding 200% of average in parts of California and Nevada. During March, Colorado and Utah have historically seen above-average precipitation during these cycles.
The players
OpenSnow
This organization is a provider of localized weather forecasting services focused on the ski and outdoor recreation industries.
The details
El Niño is defined by warmer-than-average water temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, which influences global weather by shifting the jet stream to create cutoff lows across the Western United States. This atmospheric pattern typically increases the odds of sustained storminess during the late stages of the ski season.
Timeline
1982-1983: Western region experienced one of the snowiest winters on record.
1997-1998 and 2015-2016: Seasons featured closer-to-average snowpacks.
October 6, 2026: OpenSnow held a webinar for ski industry representatives.
March: Typical period for above-average snowfall in Colorado and Utah during El Niño years.
Seasonal Patterns
The potential intensity of the upcoming season is being measured against the 1982-83 El Niño winter, which remains a primary historical benchmark for extreme snowpack levels. This forecast suggests the 2026-27 season could mirror the significant late-season storm patterns seen in previous strong cycles.
Skiers and travelers should monitor local resort updates for early signs of storm systems as the season progresses through spring. Resource management agencies in Colorado and Utah may use these projections to begin early planning for water runoff and reservoir replenishment.
The takeaway
While El Niño increases the probability of favorable conditions, localized impacts can vary significantly by elevation and geography. Travelers planning late-season trips may find increased storminess leads to better snow conditions but requires extra flexibility in travel arrangements.
Further reading
Find more long-range weather projections in our Forecasts section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Aspen Times.
Live Poll
Based on the predicted El Niño, is now a good time to book winter ski trips?
