Arbutus Winter Outlook 2026: Get Your Home Ready

NOAA's official U.S. Winter Outlook says this winter, December 2026 through February 2027, is likely to be wetter than average along the East Coast, with a very strong El Nino steering storms our way. For Arbutus homeowners, that means now is the perfect time to clear gutters, check the furnace and know where to turn for heating bill help.

What does NOAA expect for our winter?

NOAA released its winter outlook on October 15, 2026. It favors warmer than average temperatures for much of the East and wetter than average conditions along the Eastern Seaboard. NOAA's National Weather Service director Ken Graham said a very strong El Nino "tilts the odds toward stormier weather across the South," and added, "Now is the time for communities and individuals to plan ahead for the upcoming winter."

One thing NOAA is careful to say: the outlook does not predict snowfall totals, because snow forecasts usually can't be made more than a week ahead. So a milder winter on average can still bring a big storm or two. You can read the full outlook in NOAA's 2026 to 2027 U.S. Winter Outlook.

Is this good news for the drought?

It could be. NOAA's drought outlook expects conditions to improve or end in parts of the East Coast by the end of January. If you read my post on the drought and Susquehanna water in Arbutus taps, this is the kind of wet pattern our reservoirs have been waiting for. NOAA also warns that heavy rain on dry ground can cause flash flooding, so it is worth making sure water drains away from your house.

How can I get my Arbutus home ready for a wet winter?

Many homes around Arbutus and Halethorpe have some age on them, and a little prep now can save a lot of headaches. Here is my quick checklist:

• Clean gutters and downspouts once the last leaves fall, and point downspouts away from the foundation.
• Have your furnace or heat pump serviced and change the filter.
• Test your sump pump if you have one by pouring a bucket of water into the pit.
• Check basement walls and window wells for damp spots after the next heavy rain.
• Know where your main water shutoff is, in case a pipe freezes.
• Keep a snow shovel and ice melt by the door, just in case.

When the clocks fell back, I also shared a smoke alarm checklist for Arbutus homes, which pairs nicely with this one.

Where can I get help with winter heating bills?

The Maryland Department of Human Services runs the Office of Home Energy Programs, a year round program that helps with electric and heating bills. You can apply online, by mail, by phone, in person or at a drop box. For fiscal year 2027, the monthly income limit is 2,660 dollars for a one person household and 5,500 dollars for a household of four. Eligible customers with a past due bill of 300 dollars or more may also qualify for an arrearage grant of up to 2,000 dollars toward electric and up to 1,000 dollars toward gas. Details and the application are on the Maryland energy assistance page.

What does this mean for buyers, sellers and new neighbors?

If you're buying this winter, a rainy stretch is actually a great time to see how a house handles water, so take a look at the basement and ask about the age of the roof and furnace. If you're selling, clean gutters, a serviced furnace and a dry basement make a strong first impression, and my tips for selling your home can help you plan. And if you're new to the area, our Moving to Arbutus guide covers the basics of settling in.

Frequently Asked Questions