Mardi Gras, Chinese New Year, and Ramadan Coincide Despite Mild Weather

Rain and above-average temperatures signal a slow transition to spring in the Twin Tiers region.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Despite the convergence of several major cultural and religious holidays this Tuesday, the weather in the Elmira, New York area is not expected to significantly disrupt the celebrations. A shift in the weather pattern is bringing rain and above-average temperatures, signaling a gradual transition to spring.

Why it matters

The alignment of Mardi Gras, Chinese New Year, and the start of Ramadan on the same day is a rare occurrence that highlights the diversity of the region. While the mild weather may be welcomed by many, it also points to broader climate changes that are impacting seasonal patterns.

The details

High pressure brought sunshine and warmer temperatures on Monday, allowing residents to wash the winter salt off their cars. However, a warm sector is moving out, making way for a shortwave that will bring a mix of rain and snow to the Twin Tiers over the next few days. A stationary boundary will keep the showers and mixed precipitation in place for much of the week, but it will also help melt the remaining dirty snow.

  • Tuesday, February 17, 2026 is the date when Mardi Gras, Chinese New Year, and the start of Ramadan all occur.
  • Starting tonight, a warm sector moves out and a shortwave takes its place, helping to anchor a rain/snow mix and sometimes all rainy forecast in place over the next few days.

The players

Elmira, New York

A city in the Southern Tier region of New York State, located along the Chemung River.

18 Storm Team

The weather forecasting team at WETM, the NBC affiliate serving the Elmira-Corning media market.

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What’s next

The 18 Storm Team will continue to monitor a series of colder weather systems expected to arrive at the beginning of next week, which could bring colder temperatures and precipitation to the region.

The takeaway

The convergence of major cultural and religious holidays on the same day highlights the diversity of the Twin Tiers region, while the mild weather points to broader climate changes that are impacting seasonal patterns. Despite the lack of disruptive weather, the transition to spring is a gradual process that the community will continue to navigate.