Washington, D.C. – A burst of afternoon thunderstorms could disrupt travel across the D.C. metro by 2 to 5 p.m. Friday, with wet roads and lightning threatening the evening commute along major corridors.
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office, today marks the final warm day before a cooldown, with highs reaching 78 to 86 degrees across the region. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop, especially east of the Blue Ridge, impacting areas including Washington, Baltimore, Arlington, and Alexandria.
Storms may produce brief heavy downpours and lightning capable of slowing traffic on I-95, I-66, and the Capital Beltway (I-495). While severe weather is not widespread, isolated stronger cells could bring gusty winds and quick visibility drops during peak travel hours.
Conditions shift Saturday as cooler air moves in behind the system. Highs will range from 55 to 80 degrees with more widespread rain developing by late morning and continuing into the afternoon. Outdoor plans across Maryland and northern Virginia may be impacted by steady showers.
By Sunday, temperatures fall further into the 50s and low 60s with lingering clouds and scattered rain, particularly during the first half of the day.
