Winter weather is poised to impact the D.C. region starting Sunday morning, bringing a potentially significant rain-snow mix that has winter enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the forecast. According to meteorologist Steve Rudin from 7News First Alert, initial conditions on Sunday will feature cold rain throughout the day, transitioning to a wintry mix and slushy snow by Sunday night into early Monday morning.
The National Weather Service has indicated that “some accumulating snow” is likely for the area. Current estimates suggest that most of the D.C. region could receive between 1 to 3 inches of snow, while higher accumulations of up to 5 inches or more may occur in areas north and west of the D.C. metro. A winter storm watch has been issued, covering parts of Frederick, Carroll, Baltimore, Montgomery, Howard counties in Maryland, and western Loudoun County, Virginia, which will last until Monday afternoon. This watch indicates that D.C.’s northern suburbs could experience up to 6 inches of snow.
Uncertainty around the storm’s snow totals stems from a coastal weather system expected to develop off the North Carolina and South Carolina coasts, with its evolution potentially affecting mid-Atlantic weather patterns, according to Rudin.
On Saturday, the D.C. area will experience relatively mild temperatures in the mid-50s under partly sunny skies, before dropping into the mid-30s by evening. This reduction in temperature will set the stage for the precipitation on Sunday, which is expected to begin as a rain-snow mix. The weather will likely remain wet throughout the day, as colder air begins to move in.
The most significant snowfall is anticipated late Sunday night into early Monday morning. While the winter weather is expected to taper off by sunrise on Monday, any accumulation could create slippery conditions for the morning commute.
In preparation for the storm, Alex Liggitt from the Virginia Department of Transportation advised residents to minimize travel during the storm, emphasizing the importance of staying off the roads to allow crews to clear them efficiently once snow begins to stick.
As conditions evolve, Saturday will be marked by clouds and some sunshine before the weather becomes more active. Residents can expect chilly temperatures on Sunday with highs ranging from 35 to 40 degrees, and wind gusts between 10-20 mph.
Monday is forecasted to be colder and breezy, with scattered clouds and highs between 37 and 52 degrees as the storm moves out of the area. Any leftover precipitation is expected to diminish, leading to clearer skies as the day progresses.
Overall, while uncertainty remains regarding snow totals, meteorologists urge the public to stay updated with the latest forecasts as the winter weather system approaches the D.C. region. This upcoming winter weather event could provide a refreshing start to the season for snow lovers.