Cooler and drier conditions expected across Northeast Ohio this fall
As fall 2025 approaches, the Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its seasonal forecast, signaling a notably cooler and drier autumn for Northeast Ohio. Published in early July, the Almanac’s long-range prediction contrasts with its broader national outlook, which leans warmer—especially for the Western United States.
When does fall begin in 2025?
This year, fall officially begins on Monday, September 22, and runs through Sunday, December 21. As temperatures start to drop and daylight shortens, the seasonal transition in Ohio is expected to bring below-average warmth and limited rainfall.
Old Farmer’s Almanac forecast: cool and dry
The Old Farmer’s Almanac anticipates a cool, dry season throughout Ohio, with daytime highs trending below normal and precipitation levels dropping beneath historical averages. For the Northeast region, average temperatures are forecasted to hover around 59°F (15°C) in September, dipping to about 46°F (8°C) by October. Meanwhile, monthly rainfall is expected to remain modest, averaging 3.5 inches (89 mm) in September and 2.5 inches (64 mm) in October.
The Almanac notes “scattered showers, brief warm spells, and overall chilly weather” as dominant themes through the heart of the season. The trend points to a muted fall foliage season in parts of Summit County and beyond, especially if early frost develops in late October.
National Weather Service outlook: a warm contrast
In contrast, the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center anticipates above-average temperatures in Summit County from September through November. While the forecast does not lean strongly toward wetter or drier than average precipitation, the outlook offers equal chances of either scenario.
How the Almanac forecasts weather
The Old Farmer’s Almanac blends solar science, climatology, and meteorology to produce its long-range predictions. According to its methodology, weather trends are shaped by the analysis of solar cycles, historic weather records, and current solar activity.
Forecast reliability
Although the Almanac claims an overall accuracy rate near 80%, recent seasonal forecasts have shown more variability. For instance, the 2023–2024 winter forecast had an accuracy of 64%, with temperature projections missing the mark, despite performing well in terms of precipitation. The Almanac attributed these results to unusual atmospheric patterns.
For residents of Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, Canton, and nearby communities, fall 2025 may bring brisk mornings, dry air, and early frosts, though the National Weather Service suggests not to rule out intermittent warm spells either.
Anthony Thompson, reporting for the Akron Beacon Journal, can be contacted at [email protected] or followed on Twitter @athompsonABJ.
