Brace yourself, Iowa, Farmer's Almanac forecasts a frosty fall and snow

Iowa's mild weather might make you long for cozy fall days, but this fall might feel frigid, at least according to the Farmer's Almanac.

The publication shared its predictions for fall temperatures , including Halloween and Election Day conditions and when Iowans can expect snow.

Here's what to know about the Farmer's Almanac's forecast, including how accurate it is.

What the Farmer's Almanac is predicting for fall temperatures in Iowa and the North Central region

Fall officially begins on Sept. 22, and in the North Central region, the season will be frosty and wet and might be "downright frigid" with a lot of fall flakes.

Iowa is part of the North Central region, which includes neighboring states like Missouri, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Kansas, as well as more western states like Colorado, Wyoming and Montana.

The publication predicts gusty winds will arrive in Iowa for Halloween. On Election Day, Nov. 5, umbrellas might be necessary.

Meanwhile, The Old Farmers' Almanac , a separate publication, predicts above-average temperatures and average precipitation during the fall.

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When will foliage be at its peak?

Iowa's peak fall color season is Oct. 5 through 21.

According to the Farmers Almanac, the best places for fall leaves in the North Central region are Fort Ransom State Park, North Dakota, and Estes Park at Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.

The first snowfall in Iowa?

Snow might be coming earlier than usual, as the Farmer's Almanac is predicting an early-season heavy snowfall is expected across the North Central states.

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How does the Farmer's Almanac make predictions?

The Farmer's Almanac, slightly different from the Old Farmer's Almanac, has been publishing long-range weather predictions since 1818.

The publication says it examines factors like sunspot activity, tidal action, and the position of the planet to make weather predictions two years in advance.

The Farmer's Almanac uses a secret mathematical and astronomical formula that is only known by its forecasters, who go by the pseudonym Caleb Weatherbee.

How accurate is the Farmer's Almanac?

The Farmer's Almanac claims it is accurate 80-85% of the time. The publication also reviews its weather forecast accuracy from past seasons on its website.

USA TODAY Network reporter Melina Khan contributed to this article.

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at JRish@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Brace yourself, Iowa, Farmer's Almanac forecasts a frosty fall and snow