Charlottesville, Virginia, is situated in the central part of the state, nestled within the rolling hills of the Piedmont region. The city experiences four distinct seasons, including a winter that regularly features snowfall. Yes, it does snow in Charlottesville, but the total accumulation is generally modest compared to cities located much further north. This central Virginia location places the area in a transition zone, resulting in a climate where snow is expected, yet often temperamental.
Annual Snowfall Averages and Variability
The average annual snowfall in Charlottesville is typically reported to be between 15 and 17 inches. This indicates that the city receives less snow than the national average, which is closer to 28 inches per year. The highest average snowfall is consistently recorded at the University of Virginia’s McCormick Observatory, which has been collecting data since the late 19th century.
Despite this relatively low annual average, year-to-year totals demonstrate significant variability. Charlottesville’s winter accumulation can fluctuate wildly, sometimes dropping to zero inches in unusually mild seasons. Conversely, the area has recorded extreme winters, such as the 2009–2010 season, which saw a total accumulation reaching 56.8 inches.
When to Expect Snow in Charlottesville
The period for measurable snowfall in Charlottesville generally spans a little over four months, running from late November through late March. While early or late-season dustings can occur outside this window, the most substantial and frequent snow events happen during the mid-winter months. Measurable snow of at least one inch typically begins to fall in December.
The peak of the snowy season is concentrated in January and February, with February usually recording the highest average monthly total. Historical data shows that February averages approximately five to five and a half inches of accumulation, making it the most likely time for travel disruptions. Snow is much rarer by April, and the last measurable event is typically recorded sometime in March.
Local Geographic Influences on Accumulation
Charlottesville’s snowfall totals are heavily influenced by its geography, particularly its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. The Blue Ridge Mountains are located only about 15 miles to the west, creating a significant meteorological barrier. This mountain range mitigates the severity of Arctic cold fronts that move in from the west.
As these cold air masses pass over the mountains, a phenomenon known as downslope warming occurs, which raises the air temperature as it descends into the lower elevations of the Piedmont. This warming effect often prevents precipitation from falling as pure snow, or it causes existing snow to melt more quickly. This contributes to the lower annual totals compared to areas just west of the mountains. Furthermore, the city’s location allows it to draw moisture from the Atlantic Ocean, which can result in mixed precipitation, such as sleet or freezing rain, when temperatures hover near the freezing point.