Weather

Winter Storm Warning In DC: What To Expect

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for our area. Here's what you should expect Tuesday evening and into Wednesday.

WASHINGTON, DC -- The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for most of the D.C. area.

Authorities are expecting 4-8 inches of snow followed by up to a quarter of an inch of ice.

The Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang is being a bit more conservative in the forecast, but is still calling for 2-5 inches of snow for our area.

Find out what's happening in Washington DCwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

You won't see much evidence of the approaching storm on Tuesday. Things will start sunny albeit cold, with highs topping out in the low to mid 40s. The clouds will start gathering this evening, and snow won't start falling until the pre-dawn hours Wednesday morning, from 4-7 a.m., CWG predicts.

Snow will be heavy during the morning commute, so expect schools and government offices to be closed, especially with the threat of ice later on making roads even more treacherous.

Find out what's happening in Washington DCwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

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"Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 6 inches and ice accumulations of one tenth to two tenths of an inch expected," NWS wrote in their warning. "Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.

"A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible," the warning continues. "When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery, increasing your risk of a fall and injury."

By sunset on Wednesday, the precipitation will be in the form of rain. The snow won't stick around long, as it is expected to warm up again later this week, approaching the 60s by the weekend.

Here are some Twitter accounts to follow for updates during the storm:

(Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)


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