Winter Weather Forecast: Snow and Ice Chances for D.C. Area on Saturday and Tuesday
The D.C. area anticipates two winter weather events in the coming week: a light wintry mix on Saturday, including snow and freezing rain, and a potentially heavier snowfall on Tuesday. Advisory warnings are in place for most of the region, with expectations of slick conditions especially on untreated roads. Predictive models present various accumulations, suggesting significant variability in the weather outcomes for residents.
The Washington D.C. area is anticipating two winter weather events in the coming five days. The first event, set for Saturday, will involve a light mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, with advisories issued for much of the region. A more significant storm is forecasted for Tuesday, possibly leading to heavier snow accumulations.
On Saturday, wintry conditions are expected to develop between midmorning and noon, transitioning to freezing rain in the afternoon. Between 8 AM and noon, light snow and sleet will appear, with temperatures ranging from 29 to 34 degrees. In the afternoon, sleet will likely change to freezing rain, accumulating a light coating to one inch of wintry mix, particularly on untreated surfaces and colder regions.
The transition from sleet to freezing rain is expected from 3 PM to 6 PM, maintaining temperatures between 30 and 33 degrees. By the evening, freezing rain will cease and potentially change to plain rain in milder areas. Anticipated accumulation of freezing rain is around 0.1 inches, but treated roads will likely remain wet, while untreated surfaces may develop slick spots.
For Tuesday, forecasters expect more moisture and deeper cold air, increasing snowfall potential. The timing of snow is set to begin early Tuesday, possibly extending into early Wednesday. The challenge remains in predicting moisture levels and whether milder air could cause precipitation to switch to sleet or rain.
Forecast models present mixed results: the UK Met predicts substantial snow, while others suggest a rapid transition to a wintry mix or rain. Accumulations vary by model: the UK Met estimates 8 to 14 inches of snow, while others like the Canadian model predict 3 to 5 inches. The average from the American model suggests snowfall could be closer to 4 inches when adjusting for practical weather patterns.
Forecasting snow amounts yields a 70% chance of at least one inch, a 50% chance for three inches, and a 25% chance for six inches. As the situation develops, snowfall predictions may change, so continuous updates are recommended for the latest forecasts.
The D.C. area is currently experiencing a period of winter weather, leading to advisories regarding potential snow and ice accumulation. This alert is crucial for residents as it highlights both immediate weather challenges and longer-range forecasts. Understanding the dynamics of winter storms, including temperature fluctuations and moisture availability, is vital for effective planning and safety during these events.
Residents of the D.C. area should prepare for two winter weather events expected imminently. The first event will introduce a mixed precipitation scenario with potential slick conditions on untreated roads, while a more significant snow event may follow. Staying informed through continuous updates and forecasts will be crucial as the situation evolves over these two days, particularly in transportation and home preparedness.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
