As the residents of the D.C. metropolitan area prepare for what is anticipated to be a dynamic weekend of weather, forecasters have issued a winter storm watch for several regions, indicating significant changes from warm to wintry conditions.
Saturday's Brief Respite
Saturday promises to be the calm before the storm, featuring mild temperatures and mainly clear skies throughout the day. Highs are expected to reach the lower to mid-50s, making it an ideal day for running errands or enjoying outdoor activities before the weather takes a turn. Winds will be mild as well, with speeds between 5-15 mph from the northwest.
Sunday: From Rain to Snow
However, as Sunday dawns, temperatures will plummet, and a transition from rain to accumulating snow is on the horizon. The day will start with rain for many areas, excluding the mountain regions where a mix of precipitation may occur earlier in the day. Forecasters predict that by late afternoon, as temperatures dip toward the freezing mark, the rain/snow line will shift southward. This change will result in rain turning to all snow by Sunday evening, continuing into Monday morning as a significant storm system moves northeast off the coast.
Current Snowfall Predictions
Snowfall forecasts currently indicate a range of 2-5 inches for the District of Columbia, the Beltway, and Southern Maryland, while areas toward Frederick, MD, may also experience similar accumulations. In addition, regions out toward the Shenandoah Valley, as well as various Virginia counties along I-81, are expected to see accumulations between a trace to 2 inches. The extreme western part of Maryland, along with the eastern shore, could receive upwards of 6 inches, adding to the accumulative impact of this winter storm.
Monday's Cold Snap
As the storm moves out, Monday will be marked by colder temperatures and lingering snow showers, particularly in the morning. Highs are expected to stay in the upper 30s, with breezy conditions from the northwest reaching up to 30 mph.
Looking Ahead
Tuesday will see a slight respite from the cold, offering partly sunny skies with highs again struggling to break out of the 30s. However, a warming trend is expected mid to late in the week, bringing highs into the upper 40s to lower 50s by Wednesday and Thursday, though intermittent cloud coverage and scattered showers may still be present.
Stay Prepared and Safe
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates and prepare for potentially hazardous driving conditions Sunday evening into Monday. As always, those venturing out should ensure they have appropriate winter clothing and supplies should the storm result in significant snowfall.
For more information about weather alerts and updates, stay tuned to local news and weather services.
Click here for more weather updates and alerts.
Summary of the 7-Day Forecast
- Saturday: Partly cloudy; Highs in the lower to mid-50s
- Sunday: Transition from rain to snow; Highs around 40
- Monday: Morning snow showers; Highs in the upper 30s
- Tuesday: Cooler; Partly sunny with highs in the upper 30s
- Wednesday: Mainly cloudy; Highs in the upper 40s
- Thursday: Scattered showers; Highs in the lower 50s
- Friday: Partly to mainly cloudy; Highs in the upper 40s
Prepare now to navigate the impending winter weather and ensure safety for yourself and your loved ones during this transitional weekend.