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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Winter storm warnings are issued across Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia as a major winter storm moves into the region, bringing the threat of heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain, according to the National Weather Service. The warning starts at 11 p.m. Saturday and lasts through Monday, covering the DMV.
Forecasters say snowfall is expected to begin late Saturday, with conditions expected to worsen overnight and into Sunday as colder air settles into the region. The storm is expected to be long-lasting, with periods of snow and mixed precipitation continuing through Monday before gradually tapering off.
Colder air arrived overnight, marking the start of the coldest stretch of the season so far. Temperatures will remain below freezing into next week, which could allow snow and ice to linger on roads and sidewalks.
Residents are urged to closely monitor forecasts and travel conditions as the storm unfolds. Hazardous travel is expected at times, particularly overnight and during heavier bands of snow or mixed precipitation.
When will the snow fall?
Timeline:
The storm is expected to continue to develop through tonight and last into early Monday, with dangerous cold lasting well into next week.
Here's the latest snowfall timeline for the DC area:
- Saturday 8 p.m. to midnight: First flakes will begin to fall.
- Sunday 5:30 a.m.: Everyone will start to see some snow.
- Sunday 8 a.m.: The heaviest snowfall is expected.
- Sunday 12:30 p.m.: Snow will mix with sleet and freezing rain.
- Sunday 4 p.m.: The entire DC area will see just sleet and freezing rain.
- Sunday 8 p.m. to midnight: The storm will move out of the area.
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LIVE STORM UPDATES
6 p.m. – Models shift snow axis north, ice risk increases
The latest National Weather Service Wakefield briefing for the Mid-Atlantic shows the area expecting the heaviest snow has shifted slightly farther north, meaning parts of northern and central Maryland, northern Virginia and the Washington region may see somewhat higher snowfall than previously forecast.
NWS Winter Storm Briefing #9
Meteorologists also note an increased probability for significant ice impacts across parts of the region, as mixed precipitation — including sleet and freezing rain — becomes more likely during the storm, especially Sunday into Sunday evening.
Finally, forecasters say the system could linger longer than earlier expected, with precipitation extending into early Monday morning in some areas, which would further compound travel and power impacts.
NWS January 24, 2026 Winter Storm Timeline
5 p.m. – NWS update: Winter storm timing and impacts clarified
The National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington says the major winter storm will impact the region beginning tonight as a large area of precipitation overruns Arctic air already in place. Winter storm warnings remain from 11 p.m. this evening to 4 a.m. Monday, with total snow and sleet accumulations generally 6–10 inches (up to 14 inches possible in far northern and western suburbs) and ice accumulations around 0.1–0.2 inches in many areas.
Forecasters warn the mix of heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain — especially south of Highway 50 and near/east of I-95 — could cause power outages, tree damage and nearly impossible travel, with impacts extending into Monday’s commute. Officials urge people to delay travel if possible and to check local advisories and road conditions before heading out.
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Winter weather watch: Heaviest snowfall early Sunday with sleet, ice later
FOX 5's Gwen Tolbart has the latest forecast ahead of tonight's winter storm. We'll have all-day coverage Sunday starting at 6 a.m. on FOX LOCAL.
Stay connected with FOX LOCAL. For 24/7 winter storm coverage—Download Now.
4:25 p.m. — FOX 5 DC meteorologist Mike Thomas shares his "personal last call map" update on snow totals
3 p.m. — Arctic air arrived
Colder Arctic air began moving into the region Saturday afternoon, ushering in the coldest stretch of the season so far. Temperatures were dropping into the low 20s at Reagan National Airport, and highs are expected to remain below freezing through much of next week.
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