Steady Soaking Rain Brings 0.4 to 1.1 Inches Across Maryland, Virginia and D.C., Easing Severe Drought but Deficits Remain
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A steady, soaking rain moved across the region Sunday, delivering 0.4 to 1.1 inches of rainfall from northern Maryland through central Virginia, offering much-needed relief amid ongoing severe drought conditions.
The system brought widespread measurable precipitation to much of the Mid-Atlantic, with totals varying based on location and proximity to the heaviest rain bands.
Rainfall Totals Varied Across Northern Maryland and the Beltway
Northern Maryland generally picked up around 0.4 inches of rainfall, with several communities reporting totals between 0.38 and 0.45 inches. While lighter than points farther south, the rain was still significant as dry soils absorbed much of the moisture.
Around the Washington, D.C. Beltway, rainfall totals were more substantial. Many locations recorded 0.6 to 0.7 inches, making it one of the more meaningful rain events so far this month. Reagan National Airport officially measured 0.71 inches, marking its first measurable precipitation of February.
That milestone underscores how dry the region has been, particularly across central Maryland and northern Virginia.
Heaviest Totals in Central Virginia and Southern Maryland
The highest rainfall totals were observed in central Virginia and southern Maryland, where several locations reported amounts nearing or exceeding 1.0 inch. Some isolated spots reached 1.1 inches, particularly south of Washington and along portions of the lower Chesapeake Bay region.
Communities near Fredericksburg and southern Maryland saw some of the stronger rainfall rates, with multiple observations in the 0.9 to 1.1 inch range. These heavier totals provide more meaningful short-term drought relief, especially in areas where soil moisture deficits have been mounting.
Despite the widespread coverage, rainfall distribution was relatively uniform, as shown in regional precipitation analysis maps , with most locations landing between half an inch and three-quarters of an inch.
Drought Relief — But Not a Complete Recovery
While Sunday’s rainfall was beneficial, it does not eliminate the ongoing precipitation deficit. Even with the 0.71 inches recorded at Reagan National, the site is still running a 0.67-inch rainfall deficit for the month.
That means additional systems will be necessary to fully reverse the dry trend. The rain did, however, provide a critical boost to topsoil moisture and local waterways, especially in areas categorized under severe drought conditions.
Widespread soaking events like this are typically more effective than quick downpours, as they allow water to infiltrate deeper into the ground rather than running off.
Another Rain Chance Could Help Later This Week
Forecast models indicate that another rain opportunity may develop later this week. If that system materializes, it could further chip away at the remaining monthly rainfall deficit and continue improving regional drought metrics.
For now, Sunday’s system stands as a meaningful, though partial, step toward recovery. With totals ranging from 0.4 inches in northern Maryland to up to 1.1 inches in central Virginia and southern Maryland, the region finally received the kind of widespread rainfall needed after an extended dry stretch.
Residents across Maryland, Virginia and the District can continue monitoring additional rain chances in the days ahead, as consistent precipitation will be key to fully addressing the drought.
If you experienced heavier rainfall totals in your area or noticed improvements in local conditions, share your observations with us at CabarrusWeekly.com. Your reports help us track how weather systems are impacting communities across the region.
