Farmer's Almanac Prediction for Wisconsin Fall 2025 Weather
TL;DR: Wisconsin is bucking the national trend this fall. While most of the U.S. faces warmer-than-normal temperatures, Wisconsin is expected to experience a cool and dry fall with below-average rainfall and temperatures running 1-2 degrees below normal.
The Old Farmer's Almanac has been making weather predictions since 1792, using a unique blend of solar science, climatology, and meteorology. Their predictions are accurate about 80% of the time, making this one of the most trusted long-range forecasts available.
Related: The 2025 fall color report for the greater Milwaukee area
Key Methodology:
Solar patterns and sunspot activity analysis
Historical weather pattern comparisons
Current atmospheric conditions
Wisconsin's Fall 2025 Month-by-Month
September 2025: Early Autumn Chill
Temperature: Average 57°F (below normal)
What to Expect:
Cooler start to the season compared to recent years
Brief warming periods later in the month
Northern regions may see first snow of the season
Planning Tips:
Keep both summer and fall clothing accessible
Peak apple picking season
Sign up for the Ice Age Trail Mammoth Hike Challenge, a blend of hiking, learning, and supporting local communities
Northern Wisconsin residents should prepare for potential early winter weather
October 2025: Peak Fall Coolness
Temperature: Average 45°F (2° below normal)
What to Expect:
Cooler and drier than normal overall
Classic fall weather with crisp, clear days
Below-average precipitation continues
Prime foliage viewing conditions
Planning Tips:
Perfect weather for fall festivals, pumpkin picking and outdoor activities
Layer clothing for temperature swings
Excellent conditions for hiking, photography and Friday night football
How Wisconsin Differs from National Trends
The National Picture
Most of the United States is experiencing a warmer-than-normal autumn, particularly in the western half of the country. From California to Florida and up to Maine, below-average rainfall is expected.
Wisconsin's Exception
Wisconsin falls into the "Upper Midwest" region, which is set to experience a cool, dry fall, making it one of the few areas bucking the national warming trend.
Regions with Similar Forecasts:
Northeast, Appalachians, Lower Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Upper Midwest
Eastern Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Upper Peninsula of Michigan
What This Means for Wisconsin
Fall Activities & Events
Advantages of the Cool, Dry Forecast:
Fall Foliage: Cool temperatures and dry conditions typically produce vibrant autumn colors
Outdoor Festivals: Perfect weather for Octoberfest celebrations and harvest festivals
Sports Events: Ideal conditions for high school and college football games
Hiking & Camping: Comfortable temperatures for outdoor recreation
Challenges to Consider:
Early Season Prep: Chance of snow starting as early as September in northern portions
Heating Costs: Earlier than usual heating season startup
Garden Planning: Shorter growing season for late-season crops
Agriculture & Gardening Impact
For Farmers:
Extended harvest window due to dry conditions
Potential challenges with crop moisture levels
Earlier frost concerns in northern regions
For Gardeners:
Plan to protect tender plants from early frost
Take advantage of dry conditions for fall cleanup
Prepare for earlier dormancy period
Regional Variations Within Wisconsin
Northern Wisconsin
Expect frequent rain, drizzle, and some early snow in September
Higher likelihood of first frost/freeze warnings
Prime area for early fall color changes
Central Wisconsin
Moderate temperatures with occasional rain
Good conditions for late-season outdoor activities
Typical fall weather patterns
Southern Wisconsin
Milder temperatures but still below normal
Less chance of early snow
Extended outdoor activity season
Comparing Weather Prediction Sources
The Old Farmer's Almanac vs. Others
The Old Farmer's Almanac: Predicts cool, dry conditions for Wisconsin's Upper Midwest region
NOAA Outlook: Shows equal chances (EC) for temperatures in Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, with models showing weak signals
Accuracy Track Record: The Old Farmer's Almanac predictions are accurate about 80% of the time, though recent winter predictions were 64% accurate due to abnormal weather patterns
Preparation Checklist for Wisconsin Fall 2025
Home & Property
[ ] Service heating systems early
[ ] Prepare for potential early snow removal
[ ] Stock up on fall/winter clothing
[ ] Winterize outdoor equipment and furniture
Transportation
[ ] Consider earlier tire changes for northern Wisconsin
[ ] Prepare vehicles for temperature swings
[ ] Plan for potential early winter driving conditions
Recreation & Events
[ ] Book fall foliage tours for peak viewing
[ ] Plan to attend outdoor festivals and corn maze tours during dry periods
[ ] Prepare for extended hiking/camping season
[ ] Schedule home improvement projects during dry spell
Garden & Landscaping
[ ] Harvest remaining crops before early frost
[ ] Plant spring bulbs during dry conditions
[ ] Complete fall lawn care early
[ ] Prepare tender plants for protection
The Science Behind the Forecast
Why Wisconsin Will Be Cooler
The Old Farmer's Almanac uses three main scientific disciplines: meteorology, climatology, and solar science to make predictions. The cooler forecast for Wisconsin likely stems from:
Solar Activity Patterns: Current sunspot cycles affecting regional weather
Historical Climate Data: Comparison with similar patterns from past decades
Atmospheric Conditions: Upper-level wind patterns favoring cooler air masses
Long-Range vs. Short-Range Forecasting
Important Distinction: These are seasonal weather outlooks, not daily forecasts. They predict whether temperatures will be colder, warmer, or near normal for regions, and whether the season will be drier or wetter than average.
Looking Ahead: Winter 2025-2026 Preview
The Farmers' Almanac 2025-2026 winter forecast calls for dramatic swings and widespread wintry weather, with cold and snow possibly appearing as early as September in some areas.
Early Winter Indicators:
The season's coldest temperatures will be found from the Northern Plains to New England
The Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and North Central states are set for a classic winter wonderland
Stay Updated & Plan Ahead
The fall 2025 forecast for Wisconsin presents a unique opportunity to enjoy classic autumn weather with cooler temperatures and dry conditions. While the rest of the country swelters through an extended warm period, Wisconsin residents can look forward to comfortable fall activities, vibrant foliage, and perfect weather for seasonal traditions.
Key Takeaway: Embrace the cooler forecast as a chance to fully experience autumn's pleasures, but stay prepared for the possibility of early winter weather, especially in northern Wisconsin.
This forecast is based on The Old Farmer's Almanac 2025 predictions released in July 2025. Weather patterns can change, so stay tuned to local meteorologists for short-term forecasts and severe weather alerts.
Related seasonal activities:
Discover Milwaukee's best ghost tours and haunted locations. From the notorious Pfister Hotel to historic Third Ward walking tours, explore year-round paranormal experiences backed by real tragedies and documented hauntings