Upcoming Winter Storm to Impact Central and Northern Virginia This Weekend

Central and northern Virginia will experience a sunny and cold day today, with temperatures in the mid to upper 30s. A winter storm is expected to begin Sunday evening, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Travel may become hazardous with icy conditions continuing into Tuesday. The week ahead will remain cold with chances of slick travel each morning as temperatures remain below freezing.

Today’s weather in Richmond, Virginia, is characterized by sunny skies but cold temperatures, with highs reaching the mid to upper 30s. Wind chills will make it feel even colder, generally in the 20s and around 30 degrees throughout the day. As night falls, clear and cold conditions will persist with lows expected to drop between 15 and 20 degrees, particularly in areas away from the coast.

Looking ahead to Sunday, the day will commence with sunshine, though cloud coverage is anticipated to increase as it progresses. High temperatures will remain in the upper 30s and lower 40s. By Sunday evening, a winter storm is forecasted to affect the region, bringing snow that may mix with sleet, especially south of Interstate 64. Snow is expected to continue into the night, with accumulations likely before transitioning to freezing rain, creating hazardous travel conditions due to ice accumulation.

On Monday, precipitation may primarily consist of rain in metropolitan areas, with possible mixed precipitation observed further north. However, as colder air returns later that day, precipitation is predicted to pivot back to snow, offering the potential for additional accumulations. The forecasters are monitoring the storm’s trajectory closely, as adjustments to these predictions may still occur.

Residents should prepare for varying snow accumulations depending on their location. The metro areas are expected to see 1 to 3 inches of snow alongside ice accumulation, while areas north of I-64 could receive at least 3 inches, with the potential to exceed 6 inches of snow. In the Tri Cities region, accumulations may range from an inch to two, tapering off to an inch or less further south.

Despite the storm subsiding Monday evening, the subsequent drop in temperatures will likely render untreated surfaces icy, maintaining slick travel conditions into Tuesday. The forecast for the remainder of the week indicates dry and frigid weather, with daily highs barely reaching freezing and nighttime lows potentially dipping into the teens, with some single-digit temperatures expected where snow persists.

The upcoming winter storm in Virginia serves as a significant weather event impacting Central and Northern Virginia. As meteorological patterns shift, residents are urged to prepare for a range of wintry precipitation types including snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Existing weather conditions include a notable cold front with temperatures considerably below seasonal averages, contributing to potential travel disruptions and safety hazards. It is crucial for the public to stay informed of changing weather patterns, particularly as the storm approaches and evolves over the coming days.

In summary, central and northern Virginia are poised to experience a winter storm commencing Sunday evening, leading to significant accumulations of snow and ice. Residents are advised to remain vigilant regarding the evolving weather conditions, particularly in relation to travel safety, as untreated surfaces may be dangerously icy. Following the storm, below-freezing temperatures will prevail, necessitating continued caution through the week as residual ice persists.

Original Source: www.wtvr.com