The winter of 2025-2026 marked a record low for winter conditions in the western United States, which saw the warmest winter on record over a span of 131 years of climate data. Areas from Southern California to the Rocky Mountains experienced significantly higher temperatures, although cooler weather in the eastern states prevented the entire country from setting a new overall record.
Several cities—including Salt Lake City, Tucson, and Rapid City—recorded their warmest winters ever. Phoenix saw temperatures surpassing previous highs repeatedly, while Albuquerque’s winter was warmer by three degrees compared to its previous record. Other cities like Helena, Las Vegas, and Lubbock also reported record warmth.
Temperature is just one aspect of winter severity; the Cumulative Winter Severity Index (AWSSI) combines temperature and snowfall data. A lack of snowfall, caused by a persistent ridge of high pressure that directed storms away from the west and allowed for warmer weather, could have future implications due to reduced snowpack.
This climate phenomenon was linked to the negative phase of the Arctic Oscillation, which forced colder air into the eastern U.S. while keeping the west warm.
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