You can bet that it does. Even though Maryland doesn’t get much snowfall, it still gets enough to make snow-filled winters a reality. In fact, there are places in Maryland where the snow practically flies through the air from October until April and possibly even May. So, does it snow in Maryland? Absolutely! If you love to play in the snow or just like seeing pictures of snow-covered landscapes, then this is the perfect state for you. Here you will find some of the most beautiful ski resorts and winter wonderland scenes that will give you all the answers about whether or not it snows in Maryland.
Does It Snow in Maryland?
No, it rarely snows in Maryland. However, there is one location near I-95 and I-695 in Beltsville, where there is snow plowed on the side of the highway on the grass median dividing the northbound and southbound lanes. Normally, this is where many drivers stop to take pictures of themselves with a fake snowball. Because it is on a grassy median, the area is not safe to walk on or drive across.
Why Does Not It Snow In Maryland?
1. Not Enough Rain (Or Snow)
Maryland is a very dry state. In fact, it is one of the driest states in the country. Because of this, there are very few snowstorms to bring snow to Maryland. The only place that does get snow in Maryland is high up in the mountains or near I-95 and I-695 on the side of the road.
2. Not Enough Temperature In Winter
The temperature doesn’t have to be below freezing for snow to fall – it can be quite warm even during winter months in Maryland. However, a few places around Maryland do get some snow during winter months as well as a little ice and frost on their grassy areas where they plow it into the highway.
3. Low Humidity Levels
This may seem like an odd reason why Maryland doesn’t get much snow, but it is true! Humidity levels are so low that any water that gets caught up in clouds will freeze before it can fall to the ground.
4. Warm Air Currents
When the temperature is very warm, especially in the winter months, warm air currents will rise up into the clouds and freeze as they move up and over Maryland. These air currents are so strong that they can even reach down into I-95 and I-695 on the grassy median where snow has been plowed there. goes above freezing, warm air currents will rise up and keep the snow from falling. When the temp goes below freezing, the cold air will make it even harder for snow to fall. hits 15 degrees or higher, warm air currents will rush into the state and it will be as if snowfall has already begun.
5. Cold Air Currents
The cold air current that comes in from the north can bring in a lot of snow, especially during winter months. However, cold air currents are not always present in Maryland and this is why Maryland doesn’t get much snow or rain.
6. Too Much Rain (Or Snow) In The Winter Months
Maryland gets a lot of rain on a yearly basis during the summer months, but it doesn’t usually get much snow during these same months either. If you have ever seen pictures of Baltimore or Washington D.C., then you have seen pictures where it looks like there is no end to all the snow and ice that has fallen on them and it looks like they are covered with white powder! This is because these cities get an excessive amount of rain during the winter months which brings about enough moisture to be warm, and the air is filled with warm air currents. The air currents move the clouds around, and they are not able to hold any moisture.
When Does It Snow In Maryland?
- Snowfall in Maryland is characterized by the presence of a low-pressure center over the state, which is associated with a fast-moving cold front. The frontal system triggers snowfall from the western portion of the state to the eastern portion.
- The highest snowfall amount occurs in western Maryland and eastern Pennsylvania, where 4 to 12 inches of snow can fall per day.
- A typical winter season in Maryland lasts from November through April. During this time, temperatures are milder than in other parts of the United States, which results in less snowfall throughout the year, especially after February and March when temperatures become warmer and wetter than usual.
- Winter precipitation varies widely across Maryland due to variations in topography and climate patterns. For example, precipitation amounts are greater along coastal areas compared to inland areas near the Chesapeake Bay or at higher altitudes on mountains such as those found in western Maryland and northern Appalachia (elevation between 1,500 and 5,000 feet).
- The average amount of snowfall for the state of Maryland is about 45 inches annually. The highest winter snowfall amounts, however, are found in the mountainous western portion of the state (e.g., Allegany National Forest and western Garrett County) where snowfall amounts can reach up to 60 inches per year.
- The most typical date for the first fall snowfall in Maryland is October 15th, but it can occur as early as September 30th or later than November 15th (e.g., 1967 and 1971).
How To Stay Safe While Driving In The Snow
1. Keep Your Car Clean And Well-Maintained
It’s a good idea to wash out your car at the end of each season, and a good idea to wash it again before you head out in the snow. There are several reasons for this. The first is that you’ll be able to see clearly what’s going on ahead of you. Secondly, by washing your car, you’re removing any salt residue that might have accumulated on the windows or headlights, or other parts of the vehicle. This will keep them clearer and brighter, which will help make driving in the snow more enjoyable. You may also want to wash your windshield wipers before heading out into the snow so they’re ready for action when they’re needed most.
2. Make Sure Your Tires Are In Proper Condition
Tires need to be properly inflated with cold weather tires, especially those made for winter use (and those already with tread). If they’re not properly inflated, you could have a dangerous situation on your hands.
3. Check Your Oil Levels And Tire Pressure
Check your oil levels and tire pressure before you leave for the day, and make sure they’re up to par. Your tires will be at their best when they’re in good condition, so it’s important that they have enough air in them to keep you safe on the road.
4. Use Chains Or A Set Of Snow Tires If You Have Them
Using chains or snow tires is a great way to ensure that you’ll be able to get where you’re going as quickly as possible. Chains are also a great choice for those who like to drive on unpaved roads, gravel roads, or other areas where traction may be an issue. Snow tires are also a good choice, especially if the weather is expected to change quickly. They allow more traction, which means less risk of getting stuck or having problems with your vehicle in the first place.
5. Keep Your Windshield Clean
If you want to avoid getting stuck, having a clean windshield is a must. If your wipers are clogged with snow and ice, you’ll have a hard time seeing the road ahead of you, which could lead to trouble. Also, if you have an antifreeze spill or other issue with your windshield, the cold temperatures may freeze on the frost and become dangerous in the form of glass shards or even small rocks that could cause injury if they hit someone in their vehicle.
Tips For Traveling During A Maryland Blizzard
- If you must travel, try to do it as early in the day as possible.
- If you must stay, stay inside with the heat on. Go to a local theater or another indoor venue.
- If you must drive, take it slow and be cautious. Stay on main roads where there are more people, and if possible avoid at-grade intersections (the ones where traffic lights are above the road). If you do get stuck, use your car radio to communicate with others stranded on the road. Turn your car off so that it doesn’t run away from you or get stuck in a snowbank.
- Remember that cell phones will not work during a Maryland blizzard–no service at all! There is no 911 service either. So don’t depend on them for help either!
- Have fun! These storms are beautiful and exciting for everyone involved. It’s not raining or too cold; just enjoy!
Last Words
If you love the snow, then you will love visiting Maryland during the winter season. In fact, you may even decide to move here. After reading this article, you know the answers to all your questions about whether or not it snows in Maryland. You know when the snow is likely to fall and how much of it is expected to fall during the season.
