Winter Weather Forecast: Snow and Ice Expected in D.C. Area This Weekend and Tuesday
The D.C. area is forecasted to face two winter weather events: a wintry mix on Saturday and a significant snow potential on Tuesday. Advisories have been issued, indicating possible travel disruptions, with accumulations expected depending on the storm’s path. Meteorologists advise caution and suggest monitoring forecasts as conditions may shift leading up to the storms.
The D.C. area is poised to experience two winter weather events within the next five days, beginning this Saturday and continuing into Tuesday. The initial event is expected to deliver a light mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, potentially complicating travel. The subsequent storm on Tuesday has a greater likelihood of producing significant snow accumulation.
Winter weather advisories have been issued throughout much of the region. The initial precipitation is anticipated to start between mid-morning and noon on Saturday, transitioning from light snow to sleet and then freezing rain in the afternoon. Those traveling, especially in untreated areas, should exercise caution as conditions may become hazardous.
For Saturday, the wintry conditions will result from a warm front moving northward, colliding with cold air in the region. Between 8 a.m. and noon, light snow and sleet will develop, leading to sleet and potentially freezing rain by the afternoon. It is projected that there will be accumulations of up to one inch of snow and sleet, with surface temperatures hovering around 30 to 34 degrees.
As the day progresses, temperatures are expected to remain between 30 and 35 degrees. The transition from sleet to freezing rain will intensify through the late afternoon, with a possibility of up to 0.1 inches of freezing rain accumulation. Untreated roads may become slick due to the colder temperatures, particularly in the early part of the event. However, treated roads are likely to remain primarily wet but may briefly become slippery during heavier precipitation bursts.
Tuesday’s storm appears to be more vigorous, presenting a higher chance for substantial snowfall. The uncertainty lies primarily in the extent of the moisture and whether milder air will infiltrate northward. Early predictions suggest that snow may commence on Tuesday, possibly continuing into early Wednesday, depending on the storm’s path and precipitation variety.
Forecast models present varied snowfall expectations. For instance, the UK Met model suggests an ideal track for heavy snow, forecasting accumulations between 8 to 14 inches, while American models estimate 7 to 11 inches. In contrast, the European and Canadian models anticipate 3 to 6 inches or 3 to 5 inches with shifting conditions towards sleet or rain respectively.
The consensus among meteorologists indicates a 70 percent probability of at least one inch of snow and a 25 percent chance for at least six inches, though these figures are subject to change as the storm approaches. Individuals should remain attentive to evolving forecasts for the most accurate predictions regarding snowfall.
Additionally, to navigate winter weather safely, individuals are reminded to dress warmly, prepare homes for extreme weather, and ensure travel preparations are in place. With the impending storm threatening significant snowfall, it is advisable to stay updated through reliable weather sources.
The upcoming winter weather in the D.C. area is characterized by two significant events: a minor one occurring on Saturday and a more severe storm predicted for Tuesday. Winter weather advisories have been issued, signaling the potential for travel disruptions. The mixture of precipitation, especially in colder regions and untreated roads, increases the likelihood of hazardous conditions. Accurate forecasting is critical due to the diverse output from various weather models regarding snow accumulation.
In conclusion, the D.C. area is anticipating two winter weather events with potential snow, sleet, and freezing rain. With advisories already in place, residents should remain vigilant, particularly during travel. Snow accumulation forecasts vary by model, and continued monitoring of weather updates is vital as the situation evolves. Proper winter preparation and awareness will be crucial for safe navigation of the impending storm.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
