Northern Virginia residents may want to keep their shovels close this year. NBC4’s Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer just released his 2025–26 snow forecast — and for the first time in years, it looks like we might actually see a true winter across the region.
The Forecast: How Much Snow Could Fall
Kammerer expects the DC metro area to get between 13 and 20 inches of snow this season — a solid jump from recent years when totals barely reached double digits.
Here’s how the numbers break down across Northern Virginia:
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Fredericksburg: 13–20 inches
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Warrenton and Leesburg: 18–30 inches
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Luray and Winchester: 26–40 inches
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Mountain areas to the west: 90–130 inches
If this plays out, homeowners in Loudoun, Fauquier, and Clarke counties could be waking up to several significant snow events this winter.
What’s Driving the Prediction
Meteorologists are pointing to a La Niña pattern, which historically brings colder and snowier winters to the Mid-Atlantic. The NBC4 Storm Team also analyzed October snow cover in Siberia, a global factor that helps determine how much Arctic air filters into the United States during winter months.
Their takeaway: increased snow cover overseas could mean a colder and stormier season for Northern Virginia.
A Better-Than-Average Chance at a White Christmas
While predicting snow on December 25th is always a gamble, Kammerer says there’s a better-than-average chance of seeing snow during the holidays this year.
That’s welcome news for anyone who loves the sight of twinkling lights in Old Town Alexandria, Reston Town Center, or Middleburg’s Christmas parade — all even more magical with a dusting of snow.
Preparing Your Home for Winter Weather
With colder temperatures on the way, now’s the time for Northern Virginia homeowners to get ready.
Here’s a quick checklist:
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Schedule your HVAC inspection before the first deep freeze.
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Clear out gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams.
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Stock up on salt, sand, or ice melt early — they sell out fast.
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Test your generator if you have one, and ensure pipes are insulated.
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Save the contact info for local plow or snow removal services, especially in hilly areas like Leesburg or Haymarket.
A little prep now can prevent major issues later and help your property hold its value through the season.
Travel and Commuting Tips
A few six-inch snowfalls can turn I-66, Route 50, and the Dulles Greenway into all-day traffic jams. If possible, review your remote-work plans ahead of time, and keep an emergency kit in your car with:
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Blanket and gloves
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Ice scraper
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Flashlight
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Portable phone charger
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Small shovel and sand
It’s the kind of preparation most of us forget — until we’re stuck on Route 29 watching the flakes pile up.
A Local Perspective
Northern Virginia has seen its share of unpredictable winters — from record-breaking storms like 2010’s Snowmageddon to barely measurable dustings in recent years.
This year’s data suggests a return to more traditional winter conditions, which could mean a few delays, some extra fireplace nights, and a chance to finally put those snow boots to good use.
Forecast data and background originally reported by Northern Virginia Magazine and NBC4 Washington.
Stay Ahead of the Storm
Whether you’re a homeowner, commuter, or skier, this is shaping up to be a winter worth watching.
For the latest updates on Northern Virginia weather, real estate trends, and local events, join my free newsletter at www.RealNovaNetwork.com— your trusted source for hyper-local Northern Virginia news.
Thinking About Making a Move This Winter?
If you’re considering buying or selling a home this season, preparation matters just as much as it does for the weather.
The Chris Colgan Team has helped hundreds of Northern Virginia families navigate every type of market — rain, shine, or snow.
We know which homes show best in the winter months, how to price strategically before spring competition hits, and which neighborhoods hold the strongest long-term value in areas like Arlington County, Loudoun County, and Prince William County.
Contact The Chris Colgan Team today for personalized advice or to start your next real estate journey:
(571) 437-7575 | info@colganteam.com | www.RealNovaRealEstate.com
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