Washington, D.C. area winter forecast predicts wetter conditions and significant snow

Meteorologists are forecasting a wetter-than-average winter for the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia region. A strengthening El Niño pattern is expected to be a primary driver, with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center indicating a high probability of a strong-to-very-strong El Niño through early 2027.

Snowfall projections vary by location. The immediate metro area, including Washington, D.C., and parts of Montgomery County, may see between 10 and 20 inches of snow. Areas further north and west, such as Frederick, Hagerstown, and Winchester, could experience 15 to 25 inches, with some mountain regions potentially reaching 25 to 30 inches. Areas south and east of the capital are expected to receive less, between 5 and 15 inches.

While the upcoming winter is expected to be warmer and wetter than average, experts note that the timing of cold snaps will be critical. Even short periods of low temperatures combined with increased moisture could result in significant snowfall events during January and February.