Virginia — Wet pavement reflects streetlights as clouds thicken and temperatures hover just above freezing across Northern Virginia.
Early this morning, Annandale sits near 37 degrees, with calm winds and increasing cloud cover. Conditions feel quiet for now, but change is coming. Meteorologists are tracking a developing system that brings rain and a rain-sleet mix later today and into tonight.
By afternoon, precipitation spreads in from the southwest. Temperatures rise only into the mid-30s, creating a narrow margin between cold rain and sleet. Latest models show rain mixing with sleet, especially toward evening. While accumulation remains light, untreated roads could briefly turn slick.
Travel impacts may develop after sunset. Drivers along I-495, I-395, and Route 50 should watch for wet roads and isolated icy patches. Plan extra time if traveling tonight or late evening. Conditions may deteriorate quickly once precipitation intensifies.
Rain continues into the night, with temperatures hovering near 34 degrees. By Saturday morning, precipitation tapers into patchy drizzle, keeping roads damp through midday. Highs reach the mid-40s, offering gradual improvement but lingering gray skies.
Saturday night turns colder. Temperatures dip toward 32 degrees, raising concerns for black ice on bridges and shaded roads. Use caution early Sunday, especially before sunrise.
Sunday brings another round of unsettled weather. Clouds thicken again, with rain chances increasing by afternoon. Highs near 48 degrees keep precipitation liquid, though cold ground may still cause slick spots early.
Looking ahead to Monday, showers linger before midday, followed by cooler air. Overnight lows plunge into the mid-20s, signaling a sharper winter feel heading into the final week of December.
While this isn’t a major snow event, timing matters. Even light sleet can snarl traffic. For post-Christmas travel, stay weather-aware, slow down on wet roads, and be ready for sudden changes as winter tightens its grip on the Mid-Atlantic.
