Winter Storm Watch Issued for DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia

A winter storm watch has been issued for Washington D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia as a coastal storm approaches, potentially bringing significant snowfall and hazardous travel conditions. The storm is expected to impact the region Sunday evening into Monday morning.

Winter Storm Warnings and Advisories

Loudoun County, Virginia, is under a winter storm warning from 3 p.m. Sunday to 10 a.m. Monday, with forecasts predicting up to six inches of snow. A winter weather advisory is in effect for Prince William, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, northern Fauquier, and Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, and Culpeper counties in Virginia, from 5 p.m. Sunday to 10 a.m. Monday.

In Maryland, Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for Frederick, Montgomery, Calvert, St. Mary’s, and Anne Arundel counties.

Snowfall Predictions and Potential Impacts

Heavy snow is possible starting Sunday night, with wind gusts potentially reaching 35 mph. Accumulations of 2-6 inches are possible across much of the region, with some areas potentially receiving more. The National Weather Service warns of slippery road conditions and potential impacts to the Monday morning commute. InsideNoVa reports that even if snow falls, temperatures are expected to rise above freezing before and after the storm, potentially limiting accumulation.

State of Preparedness

Maryland Governor Wes Moore has declared a State of Preparedness, directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate readiness efforts. He urges residents to prepare early, stay informed, and consider postponing travel as conditions change. FOX 5 DC

Model Discrepancies

Forecast models currently indicate a wide range of potential snowfall totals. The GFS model indicates the possibility of up to three feet of snow in parts of Maryland and Northern Virginia, while the European model predicts a more modest 1 to 4 inches. MoCoShow reports that meteorologists attribute the discrepancy to inconsistencies in the American model.

Key Takeaways

• A winter storm watch is in effect for the DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia region.
• Loudoun County, VA is under a winter storm warning.
• Snowfall totals are uncertain, ranging from 2-6 inches to potentially over three feet depending on the model.
• Hazardous travel conditions are expected Sunday night into Monday morning.
• Residents are advised to stay informed and prepare for potential impacts.