La Niña's Delayed Arrival Casts Uncertainty on Winter Weather Patterns

The anticipated climate phenomenon might form by November, influencing winter conditions with its potential weak presence.

La Niña is expected to develop by the end of November with a 60-71% probability, according to federal scientists.
A weak La Niña, if it forms, could lead to less predictable winter weather, deviating from typical patterns.
La Niña winters usually bring colder, wetter conditions to the Northwest and warmer, drier weather to the southern U.S.
The absence of strong La Niña or El Niño conditions complicates long-range weather forecasting, making outcomes less certain.
In Texas, La Niña could mean a warmer, drier winter, potentially exacerbating drought conditions, though extreme cold outbreaks remain possible.