Snowfall breaks 150-year Record in Russia
A historic winter storm has slammed the country, breaking a 146‑year snowfall record and dumping mountains of snow across Moscow and the Far East.
If you’re planning a winter getaway in the United States, January 2026 is shaping up to deliver a classic mix of snowy mountain scenes, chilly northern cities, and milder southern escapes, which may be quite balmy for winter travels during the first few weeks of January.
Weather patterns through mid-January point to a split setup across the country with finally some better news for ski lovers out in the Utah and parts of the Rockies, where snow has been lacking and ski resorts have been opening much later than normal.
Here’s what travelers should know before packing their bags.
The Big Picture: A Divided Winter Pattern
A weak La Niña is expected to guide winter weather through mid-January, favoring colder and snowier conditions across the northern U.S., while much of the South and Southeast stay relatively warm and dry.
We’ll be keeping an eye on the Polar Vortex, which may briefly stretch or weaken around mid-month. If that happens, bursts of Arctic air and snow could reach parts of the northeastern U.S., potentially disrupting travel plans.
Overall, January is expected to be wetter than normal in regions like the Ohio Valley and Northern Plains, with a chance for some significant snowfall trending through mid-month.