Winter Storm Warnings in Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore sits in a climatically interesting middle ground — far enough north to see meaningful winter snowfall, yet close enough to the mid-Atlantic coast that rain, sleet, and ice often compete with snow during any given storm. Based on 13 years of data spanning 2012 through 2024, the city averages roughly 15.7 inches (39.9 cm) of snowfall per year, though that figure can swing dramatically from one season to the next depending on storm track and temperature.
The snowiest stretch of the year runs through February, January, and March, in that order. Average winter overnight lows hover near 29.7°F (-1.3°C) — cold enough for snow to accumulate, but marginal enough that precipitation type can shift quickly with small temperature changes. Truly significant snowfall events are relatively rare; heavy snow days average just 0.2 per year, meaning Baltimore goes through most winters without a blockbuster storm.
When the National Weather Service issues a winter storm warning for Baltimore, it signals that dangerous winter conditions are expected to be severe enough to disrupt travel, strand vehicles, and create serious hazards. Warning thresholds are not universal — what triggers a warning in Baltimore may differ from criteria used in northern New England or the Deep South, where snowfall tolerances and infrastructure vary widely. Always treat a local warning as a serious, region-specific alert.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 15.7 in (39.9 cm) |
| Snowiest months | February, January, March |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 29.7°F (−1.3°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 Baltimore 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.
Baltimore winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Baltimore 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 Baltimore, Maryland. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Baltimore get winter storm warnings often?
Baltimore 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 Baltimore?
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 Baltimore?
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 Annapolis, MD
- Winter storm warning in Washington, DC
- Winter storm warning in Arlington, VA
- Winter storm warning in Frederick, MD
- Winter storm warning in Harrisburg, PA
- Winter storm warning in Dover, 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.