(NEXSTAR) – Dreaming of a white Christmas? Next week's weather forecast will likely shatter your dreams.
The Climate Prediction Center's forecast for next week shows above-average temperatures expected in most parts of the country during Christmas week. Even places known for frigid temperatures like Bismarck, North Dakota, are likely to drop below freezing on Christmas Day.
States west of the Mississippi River have the highest chance of above average temperatures next week. In the Northern Plains states, there is a 90% to 100% chance that the weather will be warmer than normal during Christmas week.
That doesn't mean these places are actually warm. It's just warmer than you would normally expect for this time of year.
The opposite is true along the East Coast, with a few states experiencing below-average temperatures.
“Snow is possible in some parts of the country, but with temperatures above freezing in many parts of the U.S., we don't expect a significant amount of snow on Christmas Day,” said Nexstar meteorologist Brian James. ” he said. . “Parts of the Pacific Northwest and Mid-Atlantic may see some snow. The rest of the world will have a snowless Christmas.”
Next week may be warm but probably not dry. Many states are likely to see above-average precipitation. The Pacific Northwest is the most likely location, according to the Climate Prediction Center.
Snow is likely in higher elevations, while rain is more likely in many areas.
This forecast may sound like good news for residents of the upper Midwest, where winter storm warnings are currently in effect. A fast-moving winter storm brought snow, ice, high winds and bitter cold to much of the region Thursday, snarling traffic in the Twin Cities and forcing North Dakota officials to shut down interstates.
Up to 7 inches of snow was possible in Wisconsin and Minnesota, while North Dakota had the worst conditions with strong winds, snow and freezing rain.
With temperatures likely to rise above freezing early next week, it's unclear whether snow will remain on the ground long enough for a white Christmas.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
