Winter Storm Warning: First snowflakes of the season fall in DC; heavy accumulations in the west

WASHINGTON – Washington, D.C. saw its first snowflakes of the season on Friday, while regions north and west of the city saw heavy accumulations as a storm system moved across the region.

Around 10:30 a.m., light snow began to fall in the District, Bethesda, Gaithersburg and other parts of the D.C. area. In the west, it began to snow more heavily in places like Frederick. Larger accumulations of up to a foot are expected even further north and west of the District, where winter storm warnings have been issued for Garrett County in Maryland, Western Highland County in Virginia and Western Grant and Western Pendleton Counties in West Virginia.

However, the snow will be short-lived. FOX 5’s Tucker Barnes says chilly temperatures of over 40 degrees are expected throughout the district throughout the day. The snowflakes will turn into a cool rain in the afternoon and evening. Tucker says little to no snow accumulation is expected in D.C

Winter Storm Warning: Parts of Maryland, Virginia may experience up to 12 inches of snow

Snowflakes fall at the White House on Friday, November 22, 2024

Winter Storm Warning: Severe Weather Possible in DC; The western regions may experience heavy snowfall

Heavy snowfall is expected in these areas, with accumulations of between 15 and 30 centimeters possible. There can be up to 60 cm of snow along the ridge tops. Wind gusts of up to 80 km/h may occur in these regions in the afternoon and into the night.

The National Weather Service warns that roads, particularly bridges and overpasses, are likely to become slick and dangerous in areas north and west of D.C. Visibility could drop below a quarter mile due to snowfall and blowing snow, which could lead to whiteout conditions. Traveling could be extremely difficult or even impossible. The dangerous conditions could impact commutes throughout the evening. Additionally, gusty winds can topple tree branches.

DC Weather: Chilly weekend after snowflakes turn to rain Friday; Eyes on Thanksgiving threat

The snow is expected to transition to a period of freezing rain or drizzle Friday into Saturday morning.

Back in the immediate DC area, the cold rain will gradually end overnight. Both Saturday and Sunday will have mostly sunny weather with temperatures around 50°C. Mostly sunny and dry early next week, with a chance of showers on Thanksgiving.