With above-average fall temperatures and drought conditions throughout much of Virginia, snow lovers in the state might be wondering if winter will bring more moisture to the region.
An AccuWeather expert has made his predictions for the winter season, but for snow lovers in Virginia, it may another year without a significant snowfall.
“Snowfall is expected to be below normal,” said Thomas Kines, a senior meteorologist with AccuWeather.
The last significant snowstorm was in January 2016 when the Waynesboro area received 23.5″ of the white stuff. The region didn’t see any snow storms with more than 6″ in 2023.
While there is always a chance for moisture, it won’t likely be enough to make an impact on the dry conditions in most of the state.
“The outlook for winter doesn’t offer much in the way of help for the ongoing dryness,” said Kines. “The rest of November looks very mild with below normal rainfall.”
Historically, the most significant snowstorms in the state usually take place from mid-December to mid-March.
Above average temperatures may also contribute to the lack of snow.
“December through February, we are looking for precipitation to be closer to normal and temperatures above the historical average by a few degrees,” said Kines.
“There is some concern for cold intrusions during February and March which could lead to wintery weather, but even if that happens, we don’t think it would be enough to erase the mild spells of the previous months,” Kines said.
Virginia snowfall totals: 6″ or more
(Measured in Waynesboro/Source: AccuWeather)
- March 6, 2013 – 11.5″
- March 16, 2014 – 6.4″
- January 22-23, 2016 – 23.5″
- December 16-17, 2020 – 6.4″
- January 3, 2022 – 9.0″
- January 16, 2022 – 8.5″
Share
Crystal Graham
