Snow Forecast: Winter Storm Watch issued in DC region - how much snow this weekend?
DC Snow Forecast: Winter Storm Watch, Cold Weather Advisory
The Washington, D.C. region is bracing for a surge of Arctic air that is expected to bring heavy snow, dangerous cold and the potential for travel delays and school disruptions.
WASHINGTON - The Washington, D.C., region is bracing for a surge of Arctic air this weekend that is expected to bring heavy snow, dangerous cold and the likelihood of travel delays and school disruptions.
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DC winter storm: Crews in DC, MD & VA prepare for weekend snow
Crews in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia are preparing for this weekend’s winter snowstorm.
Before the winter storm, Winter Storm Watch issued
Dry weather Friday and most of Saturday offers the best window for storm preparations. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the entire region from Saturday evening through early Monday. Arctic air arrives on Saturday, ushering in the coldest stretch of the season. Temperatures will hover near 22 degrees by the afternoon, and highs are expected to stay below freezing all next week.
READ MORE: DC Winter Storm: How much snow will we get?
FIND THE LATEST DC WINTER STORM FORECAST HERE
Snow Forecast: Winter Storm Watch issued in DC region - how much snow this weekend?
When the winter storm arrives, snow forecast
Snow is expected to move in after 10 p.m. Saturday, with the heaviest snowfall expected overnight into early Sunday. Snow should continue through Sunday morning before a mix of sleet and freezing rain pushes northward by midday.
READ MORE: What a winter weather ‘state of emergency means’ — and what it actually does
Snow Forecast: Winter Storm Watch issued in DC region - how much snow this weekend?
Snow Forecast: Winter Storm Watch issued in DC region - how much snow this weekend?
How much will it snow in DC, Maryland and Virginia this weekend?
SNOWFALL PREDICTIONS
12–18 inches
- Western Maryland, northern Virginia and eastern West Virginia
- Areas around Front Royal, Va., and Cumberland, Md.
- West of the I‑81 corridor
6–12 inches
- Washington, D.C., and Baltimore metro areas
- Along the I‑95 corridor
- Most of Northern Virginia and Central Maryland
4–8 inches
- South and southeast of D.C.
- Richmond area
- East toward the Chesapeake Bay
2–4 inches
- Southern Maryland
- Eastern Shore
- Coastal Virginia
- Areas near Chincoteague and Salisbury
- Along the Atlantic coastline
READ MORE: What are the biggest snowstorms in DC area history?
Snow Forecast: Winter Storm Watch issued in DC region - how much snow this weekend?
DMV stocking up on last minute snow supplies
Residents across the DMV are stocking up on last minute snow supplies ahead of a winter storm that is expected to hit the region this weekend.
After the winter storm, dangerous cold
Higher totals are likely north and northwest of Washington, where little mixing is expected. Lower totals are expected south and southeast of the city, where sleet and freezing rain may cut into snow amounts.
An ice threat remains possible, especially to the south and east of D.C., as the wintry mix moves in. Travel delays are likely across the region and nationwide, and school schedules may be affected. Little to no melting is expected next week, with temperatures stuck in the 20s through Thursday.
READ MORE: Why snow amounts are still uncertain ahead of weekend winter storm in DC, Virginia, Maryland
School closings and delays
The timing of the snowfall could possibly impact the Monday morning drive to work and could also potentially lead to school closings and delays. Download FOX LOCAL for 24/7 weather coverage and an updated list of closings and delays.
Winter Storm Watch | National Weather Service
WHAT: Heavy snow mixed with sleet and freezing rain possible. There is a high likelihood of at least 5 inches of snow, with over 10 inches possible. Ice accumulation is also possible.
WHERE: Portions of DC, central, northeast, northern, and southern Maryland, and central and northern Virginia.
WHEN: From Saturday evening through Monday morning.
IMPACTS: Power outages and tree damage are likely due to the ice. Travel could be nearly impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute.
PREPAREDNESS: Now is the time to make preparations for the storm. This includes getting any necessary groceries or medicines that you may not be able to access this weekend into early next week due to any potential closure. Have an emergency kit in the car including extra batteries, a flashlight, and blanket just in case you get stranded. Make sure to refuel or charge your car before the storm hits. Check on elderly friends, family, and neighbors and don’t forget about pets or livestock during this prolonged cold period.
READ MORE: What is the polar vortex? Why it matters as snow and Arctic cold threaten the Northeast
Cold Weather Advisory | National Weather Service
WHAT: Very cold wind chills as low as 10 below expected.
WHERE: Portions of DC, central, northeast, and northern Maryland, and central, northern, northwest, and western Virginia.
WHEN: From 8 PM Friday evening to 10 AM EST Saturday.
IMPACTS: The cold wind chills as low as 10 below zero could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken.
PREPAREDNESS: Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.
READ MORE: DC, Maryland, Virginia winter weather checklist: How to prepare for snow and ice this weekend
Stay ahead of the snow with FOX 5’s expert meteorologists, streaming LIVE on FOX LOCAL. We’re streaming nonstop coverage with the newest forecasts, snow potential, and preparation tips—before the storm and all weekend long. Download FOX LOCAL for 24/7 weather coverage on your smart TV and mobile devices
The Source: Information in this article comes from the FOX 5 Weather Team and the National Weather Service.