This week, residents of the Baltimore-DC region can expect significant weather changes as two storms are forecasted to bring opportunities for snow and colder temperatures. According to meteorologists, western Maryland experienced light snow on Saturday, while Dulles Airport in Northern Virginia was drenched with over an inch of rain.
The first storm is anticipated to move into the area on Wednesday, as a coastal system develops, potentially bringing both rain and snow. The impact of this storm is uncertain; meteorologists caution that its strength and the resulting weather will largely depend on the jet stream’s position. A storm that moves further east may steer clear of land, leading to minor snow showers in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic states. Conversely, if it tracks closer to the coast, significant snowfall could blanket much of the mid-Atlantic and southeastern New England by the end of the week.
The National Weather Service suggests that while rain is expected in the Baltimore-DC area on Wednesday, a mix with snow could occur overnight into Thursday morning. The development of a subsequent storm later in the week will also be affected by how much cold air and moisture remain after the first system passes. Reports from the Washington Post’s Capital Weather Gang indicate that expectations for Thursday snow accumulation are decreasing, though there remains a chance of another storm system producing snow on Saturday.
Forecasts indicate that Friday through Sunday will see temperatures colder than average, with Saturday potentially rising to near 40 degrees, although rain or snow showers could make an appearance as another cold front moves through, particularly in the evening. Due to the uncertainty surrounding storm tracks, meteorologists have refrained from offering specific snow accumulation predictions, highlighting the possibility that the region may receive little to no snow at all.
Temperatures are set to drop significantly following a midweek high near 50 degrees, with overnight lows dipping into the 20s from Thursday to Saturday nights. According to the National Weather Service, here is the latest forecast for Maryland:
Monday afternoon is expected to be mostly sunny with highs around 45 degrees, while Monday night will bring mostly clear skies and lows near 33. Tuesday is forecasted to be sunny, reaching a high near 49, with a mostly cloudy night expected and a low around 40. On Wednesday, a chance of rain is possible, with clouds filling the sky and a high near 51. Rain is likely Wednesday night, possibly mixed with snow as temperatures drop to around 32. Thursday could feature rain mixed with snow in the morning, transitioning to partly sunny skies by afternoon, with a high near 37 and a chance of precipitation around 30%. Thursday night should see partly cloudy conditions and lows around 21.
With varying forecasts and the potential for wintry weather, families and individuals are encouraged to stay updated and prepare for changing conditions. This week could offer a final glimpse into winter as we transition to spring.