Washington, D.C. – Heavy, wind-driven snow will hammer the Mid-Atlantic overnight into Monday as a powerful bomb cyclone intensifies, bringing blizzard conditions, widespread power outage risks and dangerous travel from Virginia to Delaware.
According to NOAA and the National Weather Service, blizzard warnings extend from eastern Virginia through Maryland, Delaware and southern New Jersey, with winter storm warnings reaching west into West Virginia and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Snow develops rapidly this evening, transitioning from rain as temperatures fall, then intensifies overnight. The heaviest snowfall and strongest winds are expected through much of Monday before gradually easing late in the day.
Many communities across northern Virginia, central Maryland and the Delmarva Peninsula could see 12 to 24 inches of snow, with locally higher totals where bands set up. Gusty winds will lower visibility to near zero at times, especially along the I-95 corridor from Richmond through Baltimore. Officials are urging residents to avoid non-essential travel, as road conditions may deteriorate quickly.
The snow will be dense and moisture-packed, increasing the risk of downed tree limbs and power lines. Utilities across the region are preparing for scattered outages as winds intensify Monday.
Health officials are also cautioning residents about overexertion once the storm passes. Heavy, wet snow can strain the heart, particularly for those with underlying medical conditions. Take frequent breaks, push snow instead of lifting when possible and avoid shoveling alone.
Snow tapers west to east late Monday, though gusty winds may linger into Tuesday. Additional advisories could remain in effect as cleanup begins.
