Winter Storm Warnings in Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis sits along the Chesapeake Bay in a transitional climate zone where winter weather can shift quickly from rain to sleet to heavy snow — sometimes within the same storm. Over the 13-year period from 2012 through 2024, the city averaged 13.5 inches (34.2 cm) of snowfall per year, with the bulk of that accumulation arriving during January, February, and March. Truly significant snow events are relatively uncommon here; on average, Annapolis sees fewer than one heavy-snow day per year, with major snow days averaging just 0.1 per year — meaning seasons can pass without a single noteworthy accumulation event.
A Winter Storm Warning issued for Annapolis signals that forecasters expect conditions dangerous enough to make travel hazardous or impossible. In this part of Maryland, that typically means substantial snow, significant ice accumulation, or a combination of both. It's worth noting that warning thresholds aren't uniform across the country — criteria used by the National Weather Service vary by region, reflecting local climate norms. What triggers a warning in Annapolis may differ from thresholds applied in New England or the Great Plains.
With average winter overnight lows hovering right around 31.9°F (0°C), Annapolis frequently sits at the freezing edge, making storm-type forecasting especially tricky and ice accumulation a persistent concern even during modest precipitation events.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 13.5 in (34.2 cm) |
| Snowiest months | January, February, March |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 31.9°F (−0°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0.2 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Annapolis within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Annapolis winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Annapolis right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Annapolis, Maryland. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Annapolis get winter storm warnings often?
Annapolis sees moderate snowfall in a typical winter, with winter storm warnings during the stronger systems. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Annapolis?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Annapolis?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Maryland authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Baltimore, MD
- Winter storm warning in Washington, DC
- Winter storm warning in Arlington, VA
- Winter storm warning in Dover, DE
- Winter storm warning in Frederick, MD
- Winter storm warning in Wilmington, DE
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.