Virginia Faces Possible Light Snow Saturday as Southern Storm Meets Cold Air Over Mid-Atlantic

VIRGINIA — Parts of Virginia could see light winter weather this Saturday, particularly across central and western portions of the state, as a southern storm system interacts with just enough cold air to the north to produce areas of wet snow, according to the latest model guidance.

While this is not expected to be a major snow event, forecasters say conditions are worth monitoring, especially for travelers in the Blue Ridge, central Virginia, and portions of the Tidewater and Delmarva regions.

Why Virginia Is the Focus of This Setup

Model data shows Virginia sitting near the critical rain-snow transition zone, where surface temperatures and atmospheric thickness values are marginal but cold enough for snow to mix in, especially during heavier precipitation.

Both the European (ECMWF) and GFS models indicate the highest chances for measurable snow centered over Virginia, with surrounding states seeing lower probabilities or mostly rain.

Key factors:

• Cold air remains anchored just north of the region
• A southern low tracks close enough to spread moisture into Virginia
• Heaviest precipitation aligns with marginal snow profiles

Snow Amounts Appear Limited, but Accumulation Is Possible

Ensemble probability maps show:

• 10–25% chance of at least 1 inch of snow across parts of central and western Virginia
• Higher probabilities near areas such as Roanoke, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, and surrounding higher terrain
• Lower chances toward Richmond, coastal Virginia, and southeastern areas, where temperatures favor rain or a rain-snow mix

Snow, if it occurs, would likely be wet and heavy, with amounts staying light overall, but capable of briefly sticking on grassy or elevated surfaces.

Timing: When Impacts Could Occur

Current guidance suggests:

• Late Friday night into Saturday as the primary window
• Snow chances increase during periods of moderate precipitation
• A quick change back to rain or drizzle possible as temperatures rise

Because this system is fast-moving, any snow would likely be short-lived, but even brief snowfall could cause slick spots, especially early Saturday.

What Could Change Before Saturday

Forecasters caution that small temperature shifts will make a big difference. A change of just 1–2 degrees could:

• Push the system toward mostly rain
• Or allow snow to become more widespread for a short time

Confidence remains moderate, and updates are expected as higher-resolution models come into range.

Bottom Line for Virginia Residents

• This is not a major winter storm
• Light snow is possible, especially inland and at higher elevations
• Travel impacts should be limited, but early Saturday drivers should stay alert
• Forecast details will become clearer over the next 24–48 hours

Stay weather-aware and check back with WaldronNews.com for the latest updates as this system approaches.