Appalachian Ski Country West of Washington Wakes Up to Snow-Covered Ground as the Catskills of New York Pick Up a Foot or More in the Season’s First Widespread Mountain Snow
APPALACHIANS — Winter has officially arrived in the mountains. Snow covered the ground in ski country west of Washington, D.C., on Friday morning, November 13, 2026, while the Catskills of New York picked up up to a foot or more.
It marks the first widespread Appalachian snowfall of the season, according to Capital Weather.
Snowfall Highlights
| Area | What Was Reported |
|---|---|
| Catskills, New York | Up to a foot or more |
| Ski country west of Washington, D.C. | Snow on the ground Friday morning |
| Appalachian Mountains overall | First widespread snowfall of the season |
A Winter Scene at a Mountain Resort Village
A webcam image from a mountain resort village in ski country west of D.C. shows a true winter scene:
- A plaza covered in fresh snow
- Tire tracks carved through the snow
- A pickup truck driving slowly through the village
- Snow-dusted evergreen trees and outdoor furniture
- Lodge buildings with snowy rooftops
- Fog and falling snow limiting visibility
Catskills Lead the Way With a Foot or More
The Catskills in New York were among the snowiest spots, with totals reaching 12 inches or more in some areas. Earlier forecasts had suggested a toss-up between the Catskills and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for the East’s best snow totals.
What Caused the Snow
The snow followed a strong cold front and a low-pressure system that brought rain to cities like New York, Philadelphia and Washington, while colder air in the higher elevations allowed precipitation to fall as snow.
Forecasts had called for:
- Rain changing to snow in northeast Pennsylvania and the Poconos
- Northwest flow snow in the Smokies and North Carolina High Country
- Elevation snow across the Northeast and Appalachians
Great News for Ski Resorts
The early snowfall is welcome news for ski resorts across the Appalachians and Northeast, many of which are preparing to open around Thanksgiving. Natural snow combined with colder temperatures can also help resorts make artificial snow.
Cold and Wind Continue Through the Weekend
Even as the snow tapers off, cold air and gusty winds are expected to stick around through the weekend, keeping mountain areas wintry.
Travel Impacts in the Mountains
Drivers heading into the mountains should watch for:
- Snow-covered and slick roads
- Low visibility in fog and snow
- Icy patches on bridges and overpasses
- Possible road closures at higher elevations
Winter Travel Tips
- Slow down on mountain roads
- Carry an emergency kit with blankets and water
- Check road conditions before leaving
- Keep extra distance between vehicles
A Sign of the Season Ahead
The first widespread snow of the season serves as a reminder that winter is arriving in the Eastern mountains, with more cold and possible storms expected heading into Thanksgiving week.
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