The winter season ahead for the Washington metro area is shaping up to be a thrilling one, according to the 2025-2026 Winter Outlook recently released by FOX 5 DC meteorologists Mike Thomas and Tucker Barnes. Residents can expect a blend of wintry weather, with forecasts indicating a notably cold December followed by a potentially snow-heavy January.
The weather experts project that the D.C. area will see a seasonal snowfall accumulation of 12 to 18 inches, with some variation across the region. While eastern areas could receive 6 to 12 inches, locations in the higher elevations of western Maryland and West Virginia are anticipated to accumulate significantly more, with estimates ranging from 18 to 30 inches or more. Remarkably, some mountainous regions, such as Elkins, WV, might even receive between 70 to 100 inches throughout the winter.
The outlook includes predictions for one to three impactful storms, defined as events that yield four inches or more of snow, occurring across the DMV. Notably, December is expected to kick off with colder-than-normal temperatures, with the first measurable snowfall—one inch or more—expected before Christmas, a phenomenon not observed since 2017.
Historically, December cold spells have coincided with notable snowfall, with records showing significant accumulations during past similar weather patterns. For instance, December 2017 saw 1.9 inches of snow, while 2005 recorded 4.3 inches, and 1989 had 9 inches. Given that the typical December snowfall averages just 1.8 inches, meteorologists believe the region is likely to experience an above-average month for snow this year.
Looking further into the season, Thomas and Barnes forecast that December will be the coldest month, and January is set to be the snowiest. As winter progresses toward late February and March, temperatures are expected to moderate, although March could still surprise residents with an unexpected snowfall.
Overall, the FOX 5 forecast anticipates temperatures slightly below normal and snow levels averaging to above-normal. Although a blizzard warning for D.C. remains an unlikely scenario, the conditions are favorable for several bursts of wintry weather as the region transitions into spring. This outlook not only adds excitement to the winter months ahead but also reignites nostalgia for the cozy, snow-filled days many residents cherish.