The latest weather update from Capital Weather Gang reveals that the D.C. area is in for a chilly transition into the New Year, with a possibility of light snow to start the day. Residents can expect temperatures milder than the previous days, reaching highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s.
As the clock ticks towards 2026, early morning snowflakes may be seen, contributing to a cold atmosphere. Following this slight wintry mix, temperatures are forecasted to hover near freezing, particularly during the early hours of New Year’s Day. Subsequent days are predicted to be marked by highs around 40 degrees, with partly cloudy skies throughout the weekend.
Today’s weather, described as a 5 out of 10, may not bring excitement but offers a stable backdrop for New Year’s plans. The early hours of Wednesday could see a light snow shower, potentially causing travel disruptions as some areas might receive a light dusting. Later in the day, clouds will move in, with afternoon temperatures expected to peak near 40 degrees and winds gusting around 10 to 20 mph.
Tonight, as people gather to celebrate the start of the New Year, the temperature will dip, ranging from 30 to 33 degrees. A fresh round of snow flurries may appear in the predawn hours, leading to lows in the mid-20s.
New Year’s Day may bring lingering snowflakes in the morning, again possibly leaving light accumulations. With gusty winds from the northwest creating a brisk feel, temperatures will rise only to the low to mid-30s.
Looking ahead, Friday is expected to remain chilly but slightly milder than Thursday, while the weekend forecasts call for temperatures around 40 degrees. Saturday may trend cloudier, transitioning back to partial clouds on Sunday.
Reflecting on weather history, it’s noteworthy that on this day in 1970, a remarkable 4.9 inches of snow fell, setting a record for the day. The historical weather records also highlight an average high of 46 degrees and an average low of 32, offering context to the current chilly forecast.
As the region braces for the cold and potential snowflakes, it presents an opportunity for a winter wonderland atmosphere to ring in the New Year. Residents can approach the festive season with the charm of winter weather, making their celebrations all the more memorable.