Above-Normal Temperatures Expand East Across Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois as New England Faces Stubborn Chill Into Early April

UNITED STATES — A broad surge of warmth dominating much of the country is forecast to shift eastward in the coming weeks, according to the latest outlook from the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC). The extended forecast highlights a widespread trend toward above-normal temperatures across large portions of the nation, though parts of New England may hold onto cooler conditions longer than surrounding regions.

Warmth Spreads Eastward in 6–10 Day Outlook

The CPC’s 6–10 Day Temperature Outlook (March 29 – April 2, 2026) shows a strong signal for above-average temperatures across much of the western and central United States. The most pronounced warmth is expected across the Rockies, Great Plains, and Southwest, where probabilities of above-normal temperatures exceed 60–70 percent in several areas.

Farther east, temperatures across the Midwest and portions of the Mississippi Valley are also forecast to trend warmer than average. However, the eastern seaboard and New England region are projected to remain closer to seasonal norms, with cooler air lingering across the Northeast and parts of the Mid-Atlantic.

Meanwhile, Alaska is expected to experience below-normal temperatures, particularly across the southern and coastal regions.

8–14 Day Outlook Signals Continued Warm Pattern

The warming trend becomes even more expansive in the 8–14 Day Temperature Outlook (March 31 – April 6, 2026). Above-normal temperatures are forecast to spread across much of the continental United States, encompassing the Plains, Midwest, Southeast, and portions of the Mid-Atlantic.

This extended outlook suggests a strengthening ridge of high pressure will dominate the pattern, allowing warmer air to build eastward. The central United States, in particular, is expected to experience the highest confidence in above-average temperatures.

Despite the widespread warmth, New England may continue to experience more variable conditions, with cooler air lingering longer than in surrounding regions. The CPC notes that colder air could be more resistant to displacement in the Northeast, leading to a more gradual warming trend.

Regional Breakdown

• Western and Central U.S.: Strong confidence in above-normal temperatures through early April.
• Midwest and Southeast: Increasing likelihood of warmer-than-average conditions as the pattern shifts east.
• Mid-Atlantic and Northeast: Near-normal to slightly below-normal temperatures possible, especially during the 6–10 day period.
• New England: Cooler air may persist longer, resulting in more variable and less consistent warming.
• Alaska: Below-normal temperatures expected across much of the state.

What This Means Going Forward

The CPC outlook indicates a continuation of the warm pattern currently affecting much of the country, with the core of above-average temperatures migrating eastward into the central and eastern United States by early April.

While most regions will experience a noticeable warming trend, residents in New England should expect more fluctuating conditions as lingering cold air resists the broader shift toward warmer temperatures.

Bottom Line

The latest CPC outlook shows above-normal temperatures expanding east across the United States through early April, with the strongest warmth centered over the central and southern regions. However, New England may remain cooler and more variable as stubborn cold air lingers in the Northeast.

Stay with WaldronNews.com for continued updates on long-range forecasts and national weather trends.