MARYLAND — Although March marks the beginning of meteorological spring, historical weather records show that measurable snowfall can still occur in Maryland during the month.
Due to the state’s location along the Mid Atlantic region, it can occasionally experience late season winter weather when cold air remains in place and moisture moves into the area.
Maryland sits in a transitional climate zone where weather patterns can shift quickly during late winter and early spring. Cold air masses moving south from Canada sometimes remain over the region in March.
At the same time, storm systems traveling along the Gulf Coast or up the Atlantic seaboard can bring significant moisture into the Mid Atlantic. When these systems develop while cold air is still present, snowfall can occur.
Long term climate records maintained by the National Weather Service show that several Maryland cities have measurable average snowfall in March. In Baltimore, the historical March snowfall average is generally around one inch based on decades of recorded observations.
Locations farther inland or at higher elevations, such as western Maryland, typically see slightly higher averages because colder temperatures tend to persist longer in those areas.
Maryland has also experienced notable late season snowstorms in the past. The March 1993 “Storm of the Century” brought heavy snow and strong winds to parts of the Mid Atlantic, including portions of Maryland. Other storms in different years have produced measurable snow in early or even mid March, depending on the strength of the system and temperature conditions.
Meteorologists note that snowfall in March is often more variable than in the core winter months. Temperatures during this time of year frequently hover near the freezing mark, which can result in precipitation falling as rain, snow, or a mix. Any snow that does accumulate may also melt quickly because of warmer ground temperatures and longer daylight hours.
Even as spring approaches, Maryland’s climate history shows that measurable snowfall during March remains possible. Weather records demonstrate that winterlike conditions can still occur in the state during the early spring period, although the frequency and duration of such events typically decrease as the season progresses.
