This post explains what to expect from November weather across the United States, summarizing the key forecasts, drivers, and regional impacts.
Drawing on three decades of meteorological observation and the latest guidance from NOAA, I cover how La Niña, Arctic cold intrusions, and competing air masses will shape snow, severe storms, and temperature trends this month.
La Niña sets the stage for a turbulent November
La Niña conditions are expected to persist through November and act as a principal driver of broad-scale weather patterns.
When La Niña is present, we typically see a distinct signal: cooler, wetter conditions across parts of the North and Pacific Northwest, and drier, warmer tendencies across the Southeast and mid-Atlantic.
NOAA’s outlook for November leans on that La Niña fingerprint, suggesting above-average temperatures for the Central Plains and West Coast where persistent high pressure will dominate.
Meanwhile, the Northeast should prepare for more frequent intrusions of Canadian cold air, increasing the chance of early-season snow and sharp temperature swings.
What La Niña means for your region
In practical terms, La Niña will influence who gets more snowfall, who gets drought relief, and where severe storm potential increases.
Snow: from high peaks to major cities
November is a transition month — mountain snowfall is routine, but the month often produces the first significant snowfalls in lower elevations and urban centers.
Expect mountain ranges like the Rockies and Appalachians to collect measured snow early, while the first storms may reach cities.
By late November, colder Canadian air will spill southward.
This will push snow into the Plains and even into parts of the Southwest on occasion.
Watch for accumulating snow in cities such as Boston, Chicago, and Detroit when coastal or inland storms coincide with arctic air.
Cities and lake-effect concerns
Lake-effect snow will become increasingly common around the Great Lakes once open-water temperatures remain sufficient to enhance bands of heavy snow.
These localized snowbands can produce rapid accumulation and disruptive travel conditions.
Urban areas near lakes should prepare for quick shifts from wet pavement to heavy, blowing snow that can strand commuters and impact holiday travel.
Severe storms and a “second severe season” in the Southeast
Another critical feature of this November will be the clash of warm, moist Gulf air with incoming Arctic fronts.
That collision creates the environment for a late-season wave of severe storms across the Southeast, including Texas and Oklahoma.
Last November produced a notable tornado outbreak across several southern states, even though total tornado counts remained below long-term averages.
The lesson is clear: late-season severe weather can be deadly and surprise communities that assume risk ends with summer.
Preparing for a volatile month
Shorter days — daylight saving time ends on November 2 — combined with the arrival of winter conditions underscore the need for readiness.
My recommendations:
November’s mix of snow, storms, and temperature swings demands attention.
With La Niña in control and dynamic air mass interactions likely, this month will reward preparedness and caution.
Here is the source article for this story: November weather outlook across America: Late autumn chills tough to find