We know the question on your mind, Chattanoogans — when’s it going to get cold again?

Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect in our city for December, January + February. While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what winter will bring.

Reminder: The first day of winter is on Saturday, Dec. 21.

Temperatures are projected to lean above average for the upcoming months. | Map screenshot via NOAA

🌡️ Temperature

Think warmer. This winter, Chattanooga has a 40-50% chance of temperatures leaning higher than normal.

🌨️ Precipitation

Expect average precipitation. Chattanooga falls in the zone of having equal chances of having higher-than or lesser-than average amounts of rainfall this season.

☀️ Drought

Drought conditions are expected to persist this winter.

Settling into December

This month typically marks the coldest of the year in Chattanooga as we see temperatures drop between 36.3°and 50.2° + snowfall begins, averaging 0.59 inches. Make sure you also have your umbrellas as December historically has 13.7 days of rainfall on average.

New year, new January weather

January sees the lowest average of temperatures ranging from 30.7° to 46°. If you're hoping for a winter wonderland, the first sight of one would be during this month, which typically sees snowfall for 4.1 days.

Fast forward to February

But the snow days could pile up in February, which sees the most snowfall on average at 1.85 inches + rainfall projected for 13.7 days. You'll also begin to feel the defrost signaling spring is near as temperatures begin to rise to an average high of 51.1°.

Make the most of the cold weather

There’s no shortage of things to do in Chattanooga this winter. Here are just a few of the big events we're eyeing.