Maryland residents can expect a winter of dramatic temperature swings and widespread wintry conditions, according to the Farmers’ Almanac extended forecast released this month. The Maryland winter forecast 2025-2026, dubbed “Chill, Snow, Repeat,” calls for cold blasts, frequent snowfalls and a mix of precipitation that could challenge daily life from the Eastern Shore to the western mountains. For the Mid-Atlantic region, including Maryland, the outlook suggests periodic heavy snow, particularly in higher elevations, with coastal areas preparing for potential snowstorms.
The forecast, based on a 200-year-old formula incorporating sunspots, lunar cycles and other factors, anticipates the coldest periods targeting the Northern Plains, Great Lakes and New England, but the Mid-Atlantic will not escape the chill. Mid-January and mid-February are pinpointed for especially bitter temperatures across much of the northern U.S., with a cold snap around January 8 to 15 potentially affecting northern Mid-Atlantic states like Maryland. Editor Sandi Duncan noted that most of the country is set for a cold or very cold winter, describing it as “kind of almost going back to an old-fashioned winter. It’s going to cool down, it’s going to snow, then it might warm up a little, then it’s going to repeat itself again.”
In the Maryland winter forecast 2025-2026, snowfall is projected to be above average, with the state prepping for coastal snowstorms that could bring significant accumulations. The Mid-Atlantic’s mountainous areas, such as those in western Maryland, are expected to see periodic heavy snow, while lower elevations may experience a mix of rain and snow. Frequent snowstorms are anticipated along the Atlantic Coast, adding to the region’s wintry mix. While snow will dominate in the north, southern parts of the state could face more wet weather, including cold rain and occasional freezing precipitation, similar to patterns in the Southeast and South Central U.S.
This Maryland winter forecast 2025-2026 builds on the Almanac’s track record, which last year accurately predicted a mild winter in Texas and the Southern Plains alongside cold in the Northern Plains and Great Lakes. For Maryland, the outlook aligns with a potential La Nina influence, which could lead to higher-than-average temperatures in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic but still allow for cold intrusions and snow events. Winter conditions may persist into March and April, particularly in northern areas, prolonging the season for residents.
Southern Maryland, with its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, often experiences moderated temperatures compared to the state’s western counties, where colder weather and more snow are common. The region’s average winter temperature hovers around 34.1 degrees Fahrenheit, but the Maryland winter forecast 2025-2026 suggests deviations with colder snaps. Historical winters in Southern Maryland have included notable events, such as the Blizzard of 2016, which dumped over two feet of snow in parts of the area, leading to widespread disruptions. Another significant storm was the February 1994 event, which brought heavy freezing rain and ice to Southern Maryland, causing power outages and hazardous conditions. These past storms underscore the need for vigilance, as coastal influences can amplify snowfall or shift it to sleet and ice.
To prepare for the Maryland winter forecast 2025-2026, state officials recommend several steps tailored to local conditions. Homeowners should insulate walls and attics, caulk and weather-strip doors and windows, and install storm windows to retain heat. Stocking extra blankets, ensuring warm clothing for all household members, and keeping water lines along exterior walls insulated can prevent freezing pipes. For vehicles, maintain at least half a tank of gas, check windshield washer fluid with winter solvent, and equip cars with emergency kits including blankets, flashlights and non-perishable food. Clearing sidewalks and driveways promptly after snowfalls is crucial to avoid accidents, especially in Southern Maryland’s suburban areas like Waldorf and La Plata.
The Maryland winter forecast 2025-2026 also highlights the potential for icy conditions in southern regions, where rain events could freeze overnight. Residents in Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties, familiar with the area’s milder but variable winters, should monitor forecasts closely. The cold season typically lasts from December to March, with average high temperatures below 52 degrees Fahrenheit in places like Waldorf. This year’s prediction of above-average snow could mean more school closures and travel delays, reminiscent of the record snowy winter of 2010, when Maryland saw unusually high accumulations despite overall warmer temperatures.
Beyond immediate preparations, the forecast encourages strategic planning, as the Farmers’ Almanac aims to empower readers with actionable insights for navigating seasons. Detailed regional breakdowns are available on the Almanac’s website, where Marylanders can find zone-specific predictions. While the Old Farmer’s Almanac has not yet released its full 2025-2026 forecast, preliminary discussions note influences like solar activity and the polar vortex that could align with or differ from the Farmers’ version.
As winter approaches, the Maryland winter forecast 2025-2026 serves as a reminder of the state’s diverse climate, from bay-influenced mildness in the south to mountainous severity in the west. By heeding these predictions and historical lessons, residents can mitigate risks and embrace the season’s challenges.