Virginia – Residents across the Commonwealth are waking up to a deceptive stretch of spring-like warmth that will rapidly deteriorate into a soaking rain event before the Thursday evening commute concludes. While afternoon highs are set to climb to a balmy 75 degrees under mostly sunny skies, a sharp cold front is already timing its arrival to disrupt outdoor plans and slicken roadways.
According to the National Weather Service, southwesterly winds will intensify throughout the afternoon, gusting as high as 21 mph. The primary window for weather-related travel trouble begins after 7 p.m. tonight. Cloud cover will thicken rapidly as a frontal system pushes into Northern Virginia, bringing a 40% chance of rain that swells to an 80% certainty by Friday morning. Drivers on I-495 and I-95 should prepare for reduced visibility and ponding on pavement during the Friday morning rush.
The impact on local infrastructure will be felt most acutely on Friday as temperatures begin a steady tumble. Highs will struggle to reach 65 degrees tomorrow under heavy rain, with up to a quarter-inch of accumulation expected. By Friday night, the mercury will plummet toward a low of 34 degrees. This drastic shift introduces a significant risk of flash freezing on elevated surfaces and bridges by early Saturday morning.
Saturday brings a biting reality check with a high of only 48 degrees—nearly 30 degrees colder than today’s peak. Emergency management officials recommend checking tire pressure and ensuring outdoor plants are protected as Saturday night temperatures hit the freezing mark. The weekend will remain crisp but clear, offering a brief reprieve before another warming trend arrives early next week. Stay weather-aware as these winds pick up this evening.
Five Day Forecast for Annandale, VA
- Thursday: Mostly sunny and warm. High 75°F. Winds SW 9–13 mph.
- Friday: Rain likely, mainly after 8 a.m. High 65°F. Chance of precipitation 80%.
- Saturday: Sunny and much cooler. High 48°F. Low 32°F.
- Sunday: Sunny and pleasant. High 56°F. Low 41°F.
- Monday: Partly sunny. High 64°F. Low 50°F.
