Washington, D.C. – Winter tightens its grip on the Mid-Atlantic today as a blanket of snow coats DC, Maryland, and northern Virginia. Streetlights catch fine flakes drifting sideways in a cold wind, and wet pavement flashes under headlights — a mix that makes even short drives feel tense this morning.
According to the National Weather Service, the Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. with 1–3 inches of snow across the metro area. That includes Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince George’s, Montgomery, central and southern Maryland, and portions of northern Virginia. Meteorologists warn that any untreated roadway — especially bridges and shaded curves — may develop quick freeze-ups as temperatures hover near the lower 30s.
Drivers should expect delays along I-495, I-95, and the BW Parkway through late morning. Gusty northwest winds up to 28 mph will continue to dry roads but may also kick snow back into visibility zones. For now, travel improves slowly as the storm’s final bands slide east and skies begin to brighten.
Colder air settles this afternoon with wind chills dropping toward 0° by early Monday, especially west of the Potomac. Families preparing for the final school week before Christmas break should plan for bundled-up bus stops and potentially icy sidewalks. After all, this is the first real winter punch of the season, and conditions may deteriorate quickly after sunset.
Tuesday offers a calmer stretch with sunshine and highs near the upper 30s. Midweek shows a gradual warmup into the 40s before models hint that another moisture push could brush the region late week — a subtle “Winter Tease” worth watching as holiday travel increases.
Five-Day Outlook (Sun–Thu)
• Today: Snow ending; high 30; slick roads early.
• Monday: Mostly clear; high 36; wind chills near 0° early.
• Monday Night: Partly cloudy; low 20.
• Tuesday: Sunny; high 38.
• Wednesday: Partly sunny; high 49.
• Thursday: Rain likely; high 51.
