Winter Storm Warnings Issued for Parts of Maryland and Virginia

Coastal storm expected to bring accumulating snow and hazardous travel conditions

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings for several counties in Maryland and Virginia as a coastal storm approaches the Mid-Atlantic region. The storm is expected to bring 3-6 inches of snow to the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, with potentially higher accumulations in mountainous regions and further east. Maryland Governor Wes Moore has declared a State of Preparedness, urging residents to prepare early, stay informed, and adjust plans as needed.

Why it matters

The incoming winter storm has the potential to disrupt travel and daily activities across the region, making it important for residents to be prepared and take necessary precautions. The declaration of a State of Preparedness in Maryland also highlights the seriousness of the situation and the coordinated efforts by state officials to ensure public safety.

The details

The storm is expected to start as rain overnight Saturday, transitioning to a rain/snow mix by Sunday morning as temperatures hover around freezing. A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for surrounding counties in both Maryland and Virginia, indicating that snowfall totals are still uncertain. The highest snow probabilities in Virginia are focused in the east-central portions of the state, including the Northern Neck and Eastern Shore, where accumulations of 2-6 inches are possible. Fauquier County is also under a winter storm watch, with up to several inches of snow possible through Monday.

  • The storm is expected to start as rain overnight Saturday, transitioning to a rain/snow mix by Sunday morning.
  • Winter Storm Warnings are in effect from Sunday night into the Monday morning commute.

The players

Wes Moore

The Governor of Maryland, who has declared a State of Preparedness in advance of the incoming winter storm.

National Weather Service

The federal agency that issued the Winter Storm Warnings and forecasts for the region.

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What they’re saying

“In declaring a State of Preparedness for Maryland, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate readiness efforts across state government in advance of the incoming winter storm. The safety of Maryland families comes first. I am urging residents to prepare early, stay informed, and adjust plans, including postponing travel, as conditions change.”

— Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland (world-today-news.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updated forecasts and warnings as the situation develops. Residents in the affected areas should stay tuned to local media and heed any advisories or instructions from state and local authorities.

The takeaway

This winter storm serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for severe weather events, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region where snowfall can significantly impact daily life and travel. By heeding the warnings and taking necessary precautions, residents can help ensure their safety and minimize the disruptions caused by the incoming storm.