Winter '09 / '10 - DTN Meteorlogix

*El Nino to drive the weather pattern
*Mild in Northwest, Central Plains and Great Lakes
*Southern parts of the country to be cooler
*Severe winter storms expected on the East Coast

"An El Nino should remain in place through the winter season in contrast to the previous two winters when La Nina conditions prevailed in the Pacific Ocean.

"The mild and drier weather that occurred across the southern U.S. will switch toward a cooler and wetter pattern this year. In contrast the cold and snowy conditions that frequented the northwest and north central states will turn milder and less snowy for the 2009-10 season.

"The threat for several strong East Coast storms will be back this year after a recent quieter period."

Reuters