This weekend, the D.C. area is bracing for a significant snowstorm, with nearly a foot of snow and sleet expected. However, it won’t be the enchanting winter wonderland many hope for.
A cold weather advisory runs until 10 a.m. Saturday. The temperature will linger in the 20s in the morning, providing a brief window for last-minute preparations or grocery runs. But conditions will change quickly as cold air settles in.
According to meteorologist Jordan Evans, light snowfall might start after 9 p.m., becoming heavier after midnight. The National Weather Service predicts cold air from the Arctic will blanket the Mid-Atlantic region, so it’s best to bundle up.
The storm is serious enough that D.C., Maryland, and Virginia have all declared states of emergency to access state and federal resources. Maryland Governor Wes Moore warned, “This storm will impact every part of Maryland.” He noted the unusual weather prevents the typical spring thaw that could follow such storms.
As the night progresses into Sunday, expect moderate to heavy snow from the pre-dawn hours into the morning. Evans anticipates accumulations of 3 to 6 inches by Sunday morning, with totals possibly reaching up to 14 inches in some areas. The cold temperatures will ensure the snow sticks around longer than usual.
Officials are taking the storm seriously. Virginia’s Department of Transportation (VDOT) has pretreated over 14,000 lane miles, which helps reduce the snow’s grip on the pavement. VDOT’s Alex Liggett emphasized the importance of staying off the roads once it starts snowing, which is expected between 8 p.m. Saturday and midnight. This storm may require days of response to clear roads effectively.
In D.C., interim director Anthony Crispino mentioned that snowplows are being readied, and residents need to ensure their vehicles aren’t parked on designated snow routes by noon Saturday. This will allow for smoother plowing as the snow accumulates.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning until 4 a.m. Monday. With temperatures dropping, roads could become treacherous, and power outages are a risk, especially in areas with ice accumulation. Experts advise that staying indoors is the safest option during this storm.
For those interested in weather patterns, this storm follows a trend seen in recent years, where severe winter weather has become more common in various parts of the U.S. According to a study by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), winter storms have increased by nearly 40% since the 1980s in some areas. This might be attributed to climate change, as warmer temperatures can lead to more moisture in the atmosphere, resulting in heavier snowfall during winter storms.
As we brace for this weather event, staying informed through updates from reliable sources is vital. Keep an eye on forecasts to prepare effectively for what’s ahead.
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