D.C. Braces for Weekend Snow, Frigid Temperatures Following Unseasonably Cold Stretch

The Washington D.C. area is preparing for a wintry mix this weekend, with the potential for several inches of snow and a sharp drop in temperatures that will bring wind chills into the single digits. The forecast comes on the heels of an already colder-than-average November and December, continuing a trend of increasingly volatile weather patterns globally.

A Delicate Dance Between Rain and Snow

The weekend’s weather system is expected to begin as a mix of rain and snow on Saturday afternoon, with showers developing across the region. However, the key factor will be the arrival of a significant blast of arctic air after dark. “Colder air spills in overnight, so precipitation will be all snow early Sunday morning,” explained 7News First Alert Meteorologist Eileen Whelan. This transition is crucial, as it dictates the type and amount of accumulation residents can expect.

Most areas are forecast to receive 1 to 2 inches of snowfall by Sunday morning, with some locations potentially seeing up to 3 inches. Northeastern Maryland and the immediate D.C. metro area are expected to be particularly affected. Moderate to heavy snowfall is possible northeast of the capital, according to 7News First Alert. The earlier snowfall last week, which deposited 1 to 3 inches across the region, offered a preview of the challenges winter weather can pose, briefly disrupting commutes before melting quickly.

Beyond the Snow: A Deep Freeze and Dangerous Wind Chills

While the snowfall itself is manageable, the accompanying cold is a serious concern. Temperatures are expected to plummet, falling below freezing both Saturday night and Sunday. The real danger, however, lies in the wind chills. Northwest winds, gusting up to 30 mph, will make it feel significantly colder than the actual temperature.

“With gusty winds, we’re going to have wind chills in the teens and single digits,” Whelan warned. These conditions pose a risk of hypothermia and frostbite, even with relatively short exposure to the elements. Local authorities, including Montgomery County, Maryland, have already issued extreme cold alerts, urging residents to take precautions.

This deep freeze isn’t an isolated incident. Globally, 2023 was confirmed as the warmest year on record, according to the World Meteorological Organization, highlighting the increasingly erratic nature of our climate. While localized cold snaps still occur, they are happening against a backdrop of overall warming, creating more extreme weather events.

Impact on Daily Life and Regional Preparedness

The forecast is already prompting adjustments to weekend plans. Officials are advising those attending the Commanders game on Sunday to dress in multiple layers and protect exposed skin. The potential for icy roads, even with limited snowfall, is also a concern, and transportation departments are preparing to deploy salt and snowplows as needed.

The extended period of below-average temperatures, dating back to Thanksgiving, is also impacting energy demand. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), natural gas consumption in the residential and commercial sectors is expected to be significantly higher this winter compared to previous years, driven by increased heating needs. This increased demand can put a strain on energy infrastructure and potentially lead to higher prices.

Looking Ahead: A Chilly Forecast for the Week

Friday will be another cold day, with high temperatures around 10 degrees below normal, in the mid-30s. While a few flurries are possible, most areas are expected to remain dry. The wind will be lighter than Thursday, but the wind chill will still make it feel like the upper 20s.

Here’s a quick look at the forecast:

• Friday: Mostly cloudy, highs 35-40°F, West winds 5-10 mph
• Friday Night: Increasing clouds, lows 23-30°F, South winds 5 mph
• Saturday: Mostly cloudy, highs 44-48°F, Southwest winds 5-10 mph
• Sunday: Early morning snow, very cold and blustery, temps falling from 30s to 20s, Northwest winds 10-20 mph, gusts up to 30 mph

Residents are urged to stay informed about the latest weather updates and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from the cold. The combination of snow, ice, and frigid temperatures creates a potentially dangerous situation, and vigilance is key.

WTOP’s Ciara Wells, Jessica Kronzer and Gaby Arancibia contributed to this report.

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