Boxing Day is bringing a dreary mix of rain and potential sleet for shoppers in the D.C. area. As the holiday unfolds, light rain showers are making their way through the region, creating less-than-ideal conditions for those out and about.
In and around the D.C. metro, you can expect predominantly rainy weather. However, northern Maryland may experience a wintry blend. Areas situated along and north of Interstate 70 should be particularly cautious due to the risk of freezing rain.
To prepare for these conditions, a winter weather advisory has been issued for Carroll, Frederick, Washington, and parts of Howard counties in Maryland, effective from noon until 7 p.m.
Matthew Ritter, a meteorologist from 7News First Alert, explained to WTOP that this weather system will likely bring "showers mixed with light freezing rain and sleet" by the afternoon. He reassured residents, though, that due to borderline air temperatures and the ground being somewhat unfrozen, widespread icing is not expected across the region.
Most areas in D.C. are predicted to remain above freezing throughout Friday. Steve Rudin, another meteorologist at 7News, noted that the ice storm warning may turn out to be marginal if warmer air prevails this evening. Still, he cautioned that western Pendleton and all of Highland could encounter some slippery spots.
According to Ritter, residents in Frederick and Carroll counties should anticipate a mix of rain and sleet starting as early as 2 p.m., with Montgomery, Howard, and Anne Arundel counties possibly experiencing this wintry mix until 8 p.m. While icy conditions on D.C. roads are not expected to be severe, the National Weather Service is advising all drivers to exercise caution during their travels.
As we look ahead, this wet weather is projected to clear out by midnight. On Friday, temperatures will peak in the low 40s before dropping into the 30s as night falls.
Saturday’s forecast calls for a blend of clouds and sun, with temperatures settling in the mid-40s, a trend that will continue into Sunday. Another round of rain is on the horizon for late Sunday.
By Monday, it's time to bundle up! The day will bring mostly cloudy skies with a breezy atmosphere, and as a cold front approaches, temperatures will take a noticeable dip.
Current Forecast:
- Friday Night: Expect light rain and a light wintry mix in northern Maryland, tapering off by midnight. Lows will be in the mid to upper 30s.
- Saturday: A combination of clouds and sunshine with seasonably cool temperatures, highs reaching the mid-40s.
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, with a slight chance of showers later in the day, highs again in the mid-40s.
- Monday: A predominantly cloudy day that will be breezy and mild, with showers expected to arrive before a sharp drop in temperature later in the day. Highs will be in the low to mid-50s.
For ongoing updates, you can tune in to WTOP online or on the radio at 103.5 FM or 107.7 FM. Stay informed about current traffic conditions, detailed weather forecasts, and any closures or delays by checking the WTOP website or downloading the WTOP app for your smartphone.
