Washington, D.C. – The DMV region is entering an extended stretch of elevated winter weather risk as lingering cold across the Mid-Atlantic keeps the threat for additional snowstorms high through mid-February, following one of the most expansive winter systems of the season.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, below-normal temperatures are expected to persist across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia through the Feb. 7–20 period. With cold air firmly entrenched, any storm system tracking through the Ohio Valley or along the East Coast would likely fall as snow or mixed winter precipitation, increasing the risk for travel disruptions across the region.
The renewed concern comes on the heels of Winter Storm Fern, a massive system that swept from Texas to Maine and impacted more than two dozen states. Fern delivered significant snowfall across portions of Maryland and Virginia, while sleet and snow created hazardous conditions across the D.C. metro area. Travel deteriorated rapidly along Interstates 95, 66, 270, 495, and the Baltimore–Washington Parkway, with school closures, commuter delays, and scattered power outages reported as the storm moved through.
As cold conditions persist, communities from downtown Washington to suburban Maryland and northern Virginia could face renewed disruptions if similarly strong systems develop. Transportation officials warn that repeated snow events may strain treatment efforts, while prolonged cold increases the risk of ice buildup on bridges, overpasses, and untreated secondary roads.
Emergency management agencies across the DMV are urging residents to prepare now by checking heating systems, restocking winter emergency supplies, and planning for possible travel delays. Drivers are encouraged to avoid non-essential travel during snow events and to monitor DDOT, MDOT, and VDOT updates closely.
While the exact timing of future storms remains uncertain, forecasters say the overall pattern supports continued winter threats. Additional advisories and warnings may be issued as confidence increases, with cold air and the risk of heavy snow likely remaining a recurring concern across the DMV through mid-February.
