Virginia greets the morning locked in a deep winter chill, with frozen grass, stiff car doors, and icy air settling across neighborhoods. Northern Virginia starts the day near 21 degrees, the coldest stretch of the week, before conditions begin a slow but noticeable shift.
According to the National Weather Service, today remains sunny but cold across Annandale and Fairfax County. Afternoon highs reach the upper 30s, though shaded roads and sidewalks may stay slick through the morning. Drivers should watch bridges and overpasses during early travel hours.
Temperatures rebound Wednesday as clouds increase. Highs climb near 50 degrees, helping thaw frozen ground and leftover frost. For now, travel stays quiet, though melting during the day may leave damp pavement by evening.
The next change arrives Thursday. Milder air pushes highs into the mid-50s during the afternoon. By Thursday night, rain moves in with a 100 percent chance of precipitation, soaking roadways and setting the stage for renewed winter hazards.
While snow is not expected, meteorologists caution that a warm-to-cold transition follows. Rain clears by early Friday, and temperatures fall quickly into the 20s Friday night. This creates a flash-freeze risk, where leftover moisture refreezes and produces black ice during early weekend travel.
Residents should plan extra time Thursday night and early Friday, especially along I-495, I-395, and Route 50. Keep winter gear in vehicles and remain alert for rapidly changing road conditions.
Looking ahead to the weekend, conditions stabilize. Saturday stays partly sunny but cooler, with highs in the mid-40s. Sunday moderates slightly, offering calmer weather for local errands and holiday plans.
5-Day Outlook for Annandale, VA
- Today: Sunny, cold, high near 37
- Wednesday: Increasing clouds, high near 49
- Thursday: Partly sunny, rain late, high near 55
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 47
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 44
