5 things you need to know about Thursday's snow storm

Winter is not over yet! Even though there are only 16 days until spring – we are in for a winter blast! A WINTER STORM WARNING in is effect and upwards of 4 inches could be on the ground by Thursday afternoon! Here are the 5 things you need to know about the latest winter storm.

1) Shovels, Sleds, and Snowballs Ready!

All of the models are in agreement - a pretty good snow is in store for us by Thursday. Most of the area can expect somewhere between 4 to 8 inches - with more possible north and west of the city and a bit less is expected to the south and east. Do not be shocked if you are waking up without much on the ground. Most of our maps show the bulk of accumulating snow falling between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Once the snow does pile up, you'll will notice it will be the heavy, wet variety. That's perfect for sleds, snowballs, and snowmen but not so good for your back. Remember these safety tips to avoid those nasty injuries. The snow should wrap up by the early afternoon.

2) Plenty Can Still Go Wrong

The two main questions that need to be answered are 1) What time will the rain transition to snow? and 2) How much snow will melt before accumulation begins? March snow storms, in general, do not lead to major accumulation. The reason is because, in our region, the sun is getting a lot higher in the sky then where it was in February. D.C. has not had a 6 inch or greater snowfall in March since 1999. Currently, rain is expected to transition to snow sometime around 7 a.m. If it was to stay all rain through sunrise, expect snowfall to be reduced.

3) Yet Another #Fox5SnowDay Likely

Kids driving you crazy? Well get the ear plugs ready because you'll likely be spending a little extra time with them on Thursday! The National Weather Service has put the vast majority of the region under a Winter Storm Warning until 7 p.m.. For parents, know that winter storms and school do not typically mesh. Widespread closings for Thursday began the night before. The areas that end up with the most snow could end up with yet another snow day on Friday. You can always find the latest online at MyFoxDC.com! The kids being at home may not be a bad thing - make them shovel your driveway and walkway!!! (We're looking at you Wisdom Martin…) CHECK CLOSINGS & DELAYS HERE

4) Take A Snow Day Yourself

Speaking of things that don't mesh - let's talk about roads and snow. Once the snow does fall and stick it could accumulate fast and lead to treacherous travel, particularly during the morning rush hour. Snowfall rates could be around 1 inch per hour at times, and with the wind gusting, visibilities could be reduced. You know the drill! Stay off the roads if you can and let the crews do their work! CHECK BUSINESS DELAYS & CLOSINGS

5) Signs Of Spring Not So Far Away

We know you want to throw snowballs at our weather team because you are sick of these winter forecasts! Well this time around they have some good news (Finally!!!). Once we get rid of the snow on Thursday, all indications are that we will get into a more spring-like pattern by the end of the weekend. This means sunshine and temperatures rising through the 50s with potentially even some 60s (yes…60s!!!) by the time we hit the middle of next week. While they can't promise this is the end of the cold air outbreaks this year (in fact, it probably will not be…), this should at least mark the beginning of our transition into springtime which officially begins in only 16 days!