VIRGINIA — Measurable snowfall remains a documented possibility in Virginia during the month of February, based on long-term weather data and historical climate records.
According to historical averages compiled by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its subdivision, the National Weather Service, February is typically one of the snowiest months of the year across much of Virginia. While snowfall totals vary widely from year to year, measurable snowfall — defined as at least 0.1 inches — has occurred in many Februarys throughout the state’s recorded weather history.
Climate normals calculated over 30-year periods show that northern and western portions of Virginia, including higher elevations in the Appalachian Mountains and Shenandoah Valley, average several inches of snowfall in February.
In cities such as Roanoke and Charlottesville, average February snowfall has historically ranged from about 4 to 8 inches, while higher elevations often record greater amounts. Northern Virginia, including the Washington, D.C. suburbs, has also historically averaged multiple inches of snowfall during the month.
Even coastal and southeastern areas of Virginia, which typically see less winter precipitation in frozen form, have experienced measurable February snowfall in past decades. Although average totals are lower in cities such as Norfolk and Virginia Beach, historical records show that accumulating snow has occurred there during colder February systems.
Large snow events in Virginia have also occurred in February during past winters. Several of the state’s more significant snowstorms on record have taken place during the month, including widespread events that produced double-digit totals in parts of the state. These storms typically develop when cold air is in place and low-pressure systems track along the Gulf Coast or up the Atlantic seaboard, allowing moisture to interact with freezing temperatures.
Weather data further show that February often remains cold enough to support snow across Virginia. Average high temperatures during the month range from the low 40s in the mountains to the upper 40s and low 50s in central and eastern regions. Overnight lows frequently fall below freezing statewide, creating conditions where precipitation can fall as snow when sufficient moisture is present.
While not every February brings measurable snowfall to every part of the state, the historical record clearly demonstrates that accumulating snow remains climatologically possible throughout Virginia during the month. The likelihood varies by region and year-to-year atmospheric patterns, but based strictly on past data, measurable February snowfall is a recurring and documented part of Virginia’s winter climate.
