February has occasional nights that are above freezing, but the cold winter season is very much alive in Maryland. Annapolis, the capital at the center of the state, registers average between 31°F (-0.6°C) to 48°F (8.9°C), while Oakland is cold between 17°F (-8.3°C) to 38°F (3.3°C). Mountains resist the icy blast of the arctic air and are responsible for the relatively warmer temperatures on their eastern slopes. Heaters run all the time everywhere, from groceries and libraries to schools and offices. The western Maryland scenic railroad with steam-engine powered trains on the narrow, snow-scattered tracks seems to be straight on the way to Hogwarts. The usually crowded Chesapeake Beach is peaceful during the winter with fewer crowds. Sledding and snow tubing are popular with plenty of rolling hills in the state. A cozy cabin with snow falling steadily in the background and a hot chocolate in hand is a dream come true for many. Snowstorms frequently occur in Maryland in February, and blizzards deposit vast amounts of snow.