Winter Storm Warnings in Arlington, Virginia
Arlington sits in one of the Mid-Atlantic's more complicated snow zones — close enough to the coast to see ice and rain mix into many winter systems, yet far enough inland that significant snowfall does occur. Based on 13 years of data spanning 2012 through 2024, Arlington averages roughly 14.4 inches (36.5 cm) of snow per year. That snowfall is heavily concentrated in January, February, and March, when the region's storm track is most active and temperatures are cold enough to support accumulating snow rather than sleet or freezing rain.
Truly heavy snow events are relatively rare here. Arlington sees an average of just 0.3 heavy snow days per year, and major snowstorms are even less common, averaging around 0.1 days annually. Average winter overnight lows hover near 30.4°F (−0.9°C) — right around the freezing mark — which partly explains why so many storms end up as mixed precipitation rather than clean snowfall.
A winter storm warning issued for Arlington means the National Weather Service expects conditions dangerous enough to make travel hazardous or impossible. It's worth knowing that warning thresholds differ by region — snowfall totals that trigger a warning here may be lower than what's required in snowier northern climates, reflecting what's actually disruptive for this area's infrastructure and population.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 14.4 in (36.5 cm) |
| Snowiest months | January, February, March |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 30.4°F (−0.9°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0.3 |
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 Arlington 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.
Arlington winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Arlington 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 Arlington, Virginia. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Arlington get winter storm warnings often?
Arlington 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 Arlington?
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 Arlington?
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 Virginia authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Washington, DC
- Winter storm warning in Frederick, MD
- Winter storm warning in Annapolis, MD
- Winter storm warning in Baltimore, MD
- Winter storm warning in Richmond, VA
- Winter storm warning in Harrisburg, PA
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.