Winter weather forecast for baltimore

(WBFF) — The winter weather season is quickly approaching! And winter on the East Coast is notoriously volatile. Massive storm systems can develop with explosive speed and ferocity. Maryland is almost a bull’s-eye in a zone where dry, cold Canadian air confronts the warmer and moisture-rich air flowing north from the southern states and the Gulf Stream.

When the Jetstream moves directly overhead, it’s a recipe for powerful storms that create dangerous and impactful weather. It also makes for some challenging forecasting.

Chief Meteorologist Gerard Jebaily dives deep into the science of the winter season, analyzing all the data and global weather patterns that influence our weather here in the Mid-Atlantic.

Will it be busy with numerous storm systems, arctic blasts and tons of snow? Or will it be milder and calmer this winter? Watch to see how much snow he expects in Baltimore!

Since 1893, Baltimore has averaged 18 inches of snow each winter season. Baltimore has never had a winter without measurable snow. Last winter, only 11.3 inches of snow fell at the Baltimore airport, but it was a very wet season with 15.11 inches of total liquid equivalent. That is more than 150% of the average of 9.7 inches since 1950.

We also had a seasonal average temperature of 40.8 degrees, well above the 20-year average of 36.5 degrees and the average since 1950 of 35.8. While temperatures fluctuate between mild and cold throughout the season, average highs in Baltimore during the winter months are in the low to mid 40s, and average lows are in the upper 20s to around 30 degrees.

We have had a number of years where the snow fell very early and the snow season was below average. For others it started very late, and ultimately yielded very little.

Does this trend mean we will face a snow drought this year?

Based on all current patterns, global cycles, and the phase I expect them to be in for most of the winter, I think a below-average snow season is likely for the winter of 2024-2025. Temperatures will likely be above average during the winter season, and I predict all types of precipitation will be below average. That would translate to less than average snow totals for Baltimore.

However, I think we will get a few shots of some arctic air in the low teens between late December and January as patterns change. This will be our best time for any snowfall in our region. But it may not yield as much in the spring.

How much snow exactly? Check out my winter forecast to find out!

And don’t forget to send me all your snow measurements and great winter photos from this season to [email protected]!