WASHINGTON, D.C. – Forecasters are increasingly confident that the D.C. area will experience a light to moderate snowfall on Friday night. Initial estimates suggest a potential accumulation range of a coating to 3 or 4 inches, with certain parts of the region possibly seeing lower or higher amounts. However, the overall storm track may still shift, prompting a medium-level confidence in the exact amounts and location of the snowfall.
The storm is expected to be a “clipper” system, moving from west to east, with a low-pressure center passing to the south of the region. This track should result in mostly or all snow for most of the area, although there may be a brief period of rain or rain-snow mix around downtown Washington and to the south and east.
Temperatures are expected to start above freezing, but the timing of the snowfall means that it will likely accumulate on untreated roads, potentially causing travel disruptions. However, conditions should improve by mid- to late Saturday morning.
As the storm approaches, models have shown a fairly consistent predicted track, although there is still a chance of a shift that could alter the forecast map’s accumulation bands. Additionally, the timing and intensity of the snowfall will depend on how quickly temperatures drop to near freezing, with the potential for a localized band of heavier snow developing in certain areas.
Overall, the forecast suggests a several-hour stretch of snow across the region on Friday night, with accumulations ranging from a coating to 3 inches. The northern half of the region is expected to see most or all of the snow accumulate, while the southern half, including the District, may experience slightly warmer temperatures, potentially affecting the amount of snow accumulation.
The anticipated snowfall comes as a result of a “clipper” system. The storm is expected to start on Friday night and taper off by early Saturday morning, with temperatures gradually rising throughout Saturday.
Ultimately, while forecasters are becoming more confident in the expected snowfall, there is still a level of uncertainty regarding specific accumulation amounts and the potential development of a heavier snow band. These factors will continue to be monitored as the storm approaches.