Major Snowstorm Set to Hit DC, Maryland, and Virginia This Weekend

A strong winter storm is lining up to bring heavy snow and dangerous cold weather to the DMV beginning late Saturday evening and lasting through Sunday night. Forecast models continue to trend colder and snowier, increasing confidence that much of the region will see significant accumulation. Snow will potentially move into the area Saturday evening, becoming heavy overnight as the storm strengthens. The most intense snowfall occurs early Sunday through Sunday afternoon, when roads will turn snow-covered quickly and visibility will drop. Snow tapers off late Sunday night, but freezing temperatures will keep accumulation in place into early next week. You can expect 90% of the region will get 3+ inches of snow. 

Predicted Snow Totals by County

While totals will continue to adjust, current projections point to widespread snow across the region:

Washington, D.C.

– 8 to 10 inches expected, with higher amounts possible if heavy bands linger over the city.

Maryland

– Montgomery County: 10 to 14+ inches

– Prince George’s County: 8 to 12+ inches

– Howard County: 8 to 12+ inches

– Baltimore County: 8 to 14+ inches

– Frederick County: 12 to 18+ inches, highest totals in the region

– Anne Arundel County: 6 to 10+ inches, some mixing possible late

Virginia

– Fairfax County: 8 to 12+ inches

– Loudoun County: 10 to 16+ inches

– Prince William County: 6 to 10+ inches

– Arlington & Alexandria: 7 to 10+ inches

– Stafford County: 5 to 8+ inches, higher risk for sleet

Northern and western suburbs stand the best chance of double-digit snowfall, while areas closer to southern Maryland and southern Virginia could see slightly lower totals if mixing develops.

Impacts Across the DMV

Road conditions will deteriorate rapidly once snow begins Saturday night. Plows will struggle to keep up during the heaviest snowfall Sunday, and travel could become dangerous or impossible in some areas. Flight delays and cancellations are likely, and school and government closures are increasingly possible for Monday. Temperatures will stay below freezing well after the storm ends, allowing snow and ice to linger on roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. Wind chills will drop into the teens, adding to the danger for anyone outside for extended periods.

How to Prepare

Residents should finish storm preparations before Saturday afternoon. Stock up on food and medications, gas your vehicles, check heating systems, charge electronics, and avoid unnecessary travel once snow starts falling. This storm has the potential to become one of the most impactful snow events of the season for the DMV, and conditions will worsen quickly once it arrives.