The D.C. region is bracing for a second round of December snowfall that is set to bring freezing temperatures and icy conditions this weekend. A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service as a wintry mix progresses through the area.
Weather Forecast for the Weekend
Snowfall is expected to commence on Saturday evening, transitioning from rain and snow to all snow overnight. According to meteorologist Mark Peña from 7News First Alert, travelers should expect slick road conditions. Accumulation will likely occur on untreated surfaces and grass first.
- Saturday Evening: Rain/snow mix, temperatures in the 30s, with winds shifting to the northwest at 5-10 mph.
- Saturday Night: Snow showers with lows between 25-30°F. Wind chill will be in the 20s and winds from the north at 10-20 mph.
- Sunday Morning: Continued snow showers, especially east of I-95. Highs will remain between 28-32°F, with gusty northwest winds reaching 35-40 mph.
- Sunday Night: Mostly clear and cold, with lows dropping to 18-22°F. Wind chills will be in the single digits.
- Monday: Partly sunny with high temperatures only reaching the upper 20s to low 30s. Winds from the northwest at 10-15 mph.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny with temperatures finally rising above freezing for the first time since late Sunday.
Travel Advisory and Safety Measures
Officials are urging residents to stay off the roads if possible. Road crews, including those from the Virginia Department of Transportation, have been actively pretreating key routes since Friday. Charlie Gischler of the Maryland State Highway Administration advised that delaying travel until conditions improve is the best course of action.
Moreover, D.C.’s snow coordinator, Warnique West, cautioned drivers to maintain a safe distance from snow plows to allow them to work effectively.
Cold Temperatures Ahead
Following the snowfall, the region will experience significant temperature drops. Arctic winds are expected to bring frigid conditions with wind chills falling into the single digits. Sunday night will see temperatures plummet, necessitating warm clothing for anyone venturing outdoors.
As December unfolds, residents should prepare for harsh winter weather and stay informed via local news outlets such as El-Balad for ongoing updates and safety tips.
