New Year’s Eve weather forecast, from rain in the West to snow in the East

As we prepare to welcome the new year of 2026, rough weather is predicted on both the East and West Coasts of the United States. On the West Coast, Southern California is bracing for more rain on New Year’s Eve, following last week’s devastating floods. An excessive rainfall risk level of 2 out of 4 has been issued for the Los Angeles and Santa Barbara areas, with expected rainfall ranging from 1 to 2 inches in LA and up to 4 inches in higher elevations.

In Southern California, more than 17 million residents are under a flood watch, with the possibility of debris flow and mudslides. The rain is expected to begin falling from Los Angeles to the Bay Area by noon on Wednesday, spreading statewide throughout the afternoon and evening, with passing showers reaching Las Vegas and Arizona.

As the clock strikes midnight, much of the Southwest, including California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah, will be experiencing rain, with heavy downpours continuing in Los Angeles into the morning hours. The rain is expected to spread northward into Washington and Idaho on Thursday.

Meanwhile, on the East Coast, a quick clipper system is bringing snow to the upper Midwest and Northeast on New Year’s Eve. The heaviest snowfall is anticipated to be lake effect snow off the Great Lakes. In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a winter weather advisory is in effect for 3 to 5 inches of snow, with potential visibility issues due to strong winds.

Syracuse, New York, which recently saw a record-breaking 2 feet of snow, may receive an additional 4 to 8 inches on Wednesday. Orchard Park, New York, home to the Buffalo Bills, could see 1 to 2 feet of snow on Wednesday and Thursday. New York City is expected to have a few flurries, but minimal snow accumulation is anticipated when the ball drops in Times Square, with wind chills in the 20s.

Boston could receive 1 to 3 inches of snow from New Year’s Eve through Thursday morning, while parts of upstate New York may see up to 3 feet of snow by Saturday morning due to ongoing lake effect snow. As we prepare to ring in the new year, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared for the varying weather conditions across the country.