Washington, DC – Drivers and pedestrians across the capital should prepare for slow-moving storms beginning Tuesday afternoon, bringing heavy downpours and potential lightning into the evening commute. The unsettled weather could linger through Thursday night, keeping roadways slick and travel conditions variable.
According to the National Weather Service, storms are most likely between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesday, with more showers possible overnight. Rain chances climb to 50 percent on Wednesday and remain elevated through Thursday as moisture hangs over the region.
Temperatures will stay warm, peaking near 86 on Tuesday and holding in the low 80s midweek before dropping slightly into the 70s by Thursday and Friday. Evening lows remain mild, mostly in the mid- to upper-60s.
Residents in Washington, Arlington, and Alexandria may see ponding on roads during heavier downpours, especially along the George Washington Parkway and I-395. Commuters should allow extra time and avoid driving through standing water. Outdoor events from the National Mall to Nationals Park could be interrupted by lightning delays.
The week ends unsettled, with showers likely Friday before a gradual clearing trend into the weekend. Another round of rain is possible by Sunday.
Five Day Forecast for Washington, DC
- Monday Night: Mostly cloudy, low 64.
- Tuesday: Storms possible after 2 p.m., high 86.
- Tuesday Night: Showers and storms before midnight, low 66.
- Wednesday: Chance of storms after 2 p.m., high 81.
- Thursday: Showers likely, high 76, low 67.
