Farmer's Almanac predicts 'numbingly' cold, snowy winter in Chicago

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Farmer's Almanac predictions are out for 2017, and winter in Chicago isn't looking good.

Farmer's Almanac Editor Peter Geiger joined ABC7 Meteorologist Tracy Butler to discuss the seasonal predictions: a "numbingly cold", snowy winter and a hot, soggy summer.

"Then when you get to February, cold. I mean, maybe 40 below zero," Geiger said.

Besides the weather, there are also some quirky predictions, such as the best days to bake and the best days to start a diet.

One other interesting fact? If you're looking to buy a house next year, the almanac said there are no good days for six months out of the year!

"What you need to remember is that the Farmer's Almanac predictions for weather are made as far as TWO YEARS in advance with very little basis in science... Think Groundhog Day," Butler added.

The data which we study in the ABC7 Weather Center is based on more recent and scientific information. While it's fun to page through the Almanac folklore, turn to the ABC7 Weather Team for your most accurate weather forecasts year round.

The 200th edition of the Farmer's Almanac is on sale now at area bookstores.