Maryland–Virginia–D.C. – Flags snap in the wind across the National Mall this morning as northwest gusts whip through the region, sending leaves tumbling and marking the first clear sign of early winter’s return. Temperatures hover in the mid-40s, but the brisk breeze makes it feel closer to the upper 30s — a preview of a colder pattern developing across the eastern U.S.
Friday brings sunshine but little warmth. Highs reach only the low 40s, with wind gusts near 30 mph across open areas and along I-95. Conditions remain dry for those traveling home after Thanksgiving, though motorists should expect crosswinds on elevated bridges and overpasses.
Saturday starts clear and calm, offering a short break before clouds move in again late in the day. By Sunday, moisture increases as a weak front moves east, bringing a 50% chance of rain, mainly during the afternoon and evening. Cooler air quickly follows, setting up lows in the upper 20s to low 30s by Monday morning.
NOAA’s latest 6–10 day outlook shows below-normal temperatures expanding across the eastern U.S. from Dec. 2–6, with a higher likelihood of wet weather continuing into early December. Meteorologists say this could signal the region’s first extended cold spell of the season — possibly a winter tease before the real chill settles in.
5-Day Outlook (Washington, D.C. Region)
- Friday: Sunny, breezy, high 41°F.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 42°F.
- Sunday: Chance of rain, high 44°F.
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 43°F.
- Tuesday: Chance of showers, high 39°F.
