Lately, a popular question has been buzzing through Prep classrooms: Will this winter be colder? Will we see more snow? And most importantly, will there be more snow days?
These questions arise every year as students dream of those magical snow days—unexpected breaks from school brought by winter weather. Last year, however, Montgomery County, MD, saw relatively little snow. Snowfall totals varied depending on location. For instance:
- Washington Grove recorded 5.6 inches of snow in January 2024.
- Montgomery Village had 5.2 inches during the same period.
- In December 2023, Damascus received just 2.5 inches, while Gaithersburg only managed 1.5 inches.
Compared to other years, these numbers were modest. So, what can we expect for the 2024-2025 winter season? More importantly, will we see enough snow to close schools?
The Forecast for 2024-2025
Unfortunately for snow day enthusiasts, meteorologists predict this winter will be warmer and drier than usual in Rockville. Forecasters say a weak weather pattern will linger, likely leading to:
- Higher temperatures
- Less snowfall than the annual average of 21 inches
- This year’s snowfall is expected to be around 19 inches. While that’s not a huge drop, it could slightly reduce the chances of those cherished snow days.
Will There Still Be Snow Days?
Despite the forecast, there’s no need to panic. Even with predictions of a milder winter, snowstorms can still occur unexpectedly. Sometimes, just a small amount of snow at the right (or wrong) time can lead to delays or closures.
Remember, Montgomery County Public Schools make closure decisions for the entire county. This means if it snows heavily in Damascus, even if Rockville is clear, schools countywide could still close.
Keep Hope Alive
While this winter may not bring major snowstorms, it only takes one good storm to grant a surprise day off. So, keep your fingers crossed, watch the weather forecast, and be ready for that potential snow day magic!
