Despite the recent temperature drops, probabilities for snow in Georgia this year are low. It has been a difficult season to predict, but could the Peach State actually see snow beyond the highest mountain elevations? Here is what we know.

After record breaking high temperatures, it’s been a long time since Georgians have experienced some snowfall. This year, western storms caused a mild autumn, and there hasn’t been much rain. This is because Georgia is in a La Nina weather pattern, meaning that the South is warmer and drier, while the Northern storm track is stronger.

This pattern also causes a drier winter with hotter temperatures than normal. January will be the warmest, but there will be episodes of colder weather that could increase the likelihood of snow.

Early and late December have the best chances, especially in Northeast Georgia. Another opportunity could be at the end of February because of the disruption in pressure at the polar vortex. This often changes weather patterns, but it still doesn’t guarantee any snow for Georgia.

Temperatures are predicted to be average in December, but well above average in both January and February. Paul Pastelok, an AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert, says, “Higher pressure from the Western Atlantic backs in and brings us mild weather.” As for rain, average precipitation will occur in December, with more rain in January, mainly from Atlanta to the Southern Appalachians.

While this year may not look good for snow, the weather cycles for snow in the future don’t disappoint. Pastelok says, “It’s just been difficult because we’ve had three years of La Nina.” Next winter, we don’t appear to be in the La Nina storm track, so there is a better chance for things to fall into place and snow to come.

So will we be seeing snow in Georgia this winter? Don’t get out your snow boots out just yet, but this winter could be full of surprises.