Weather
Virginia Weather Alert: Chilly Mornings Near D.C. Oct 18-19
Annandale, VA – A sharp fall cooldown is expected across the Annandale area and parts of Northern Virginia this weekend, with temperatures falling into the upper 30s by early Sunday, October 18. The c
By Avery Collins · 2026-10-16T08:04:41.659Z
Annandale, VA – A sharp fall cooldown is expected across the Annandale area and parts of Northern Virginia this weekend, with temperatures falling into the upper 30s by early Sunday, October 18. The change follows Friday's forecast high near 82 degrees, creating a 45 degree difference between the warm afternoon and the weekend's coldest projected morning. Residents across Fairfax County and the Washington, D.C., suburbs should prepare for chilly early outdoor activities and a noticeably cooler start to the new week before temperatures gradually recover.
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office, temperatures in Annandale are expected to fall to approximately 37 degrees Saturday night before reaching a high near 56 degrees Sunday. Sunday night will remain mostly clear, with a low around 40 degrees, while Monday brings mostly sunny skies and a high near 59. The cooler pattern follows a cold front moving through the Mid Atlantic, bringing a transition from unusually warm conditions to much cooler, drier weather across the Washington metropolitan area.
Sunday Brings Chilly Conditions Across Northern Virginia The most noticeable temperature change will be felt early Sunday, when residents could wake up to readings in the upper 30s. Saturday's afternoon high is forecast near 54 degrees, with north winds of 16 to 18 mph and gusts reaching 30 mph. Those winds will accompany the arrival of cooler air, while clearing skies Saturday night should allow temperatures to fall further before sunrise.
Although the forecast low of 37 degrees remains above freezing, it represents a significant departure from Friday's warmth. The 45 degree difference develops across roughly two days rather than in a single rapid temperature plunge. Residents with early Sunday plans may want additional layers, particularly for outdoor sports, neighborhood events and morning activities. The supplied forecast does not specifically predict frost or freezing temperatures for Annandale.
Cooler Weather Could Affect Weekend Travel and Activities The transition begins Saturday as showers become less likely during the morning and skies gradually clear. The National Weather Service forecasts a 30% chance of showers before 8 a.m., followed by improving conditions. Gusty north winds may remain noticeable throughout the afternoon, especially in open areas and along exposed roadways.
Drivers traveling along Interstate 495, Interstate 66 and Interstate 95 should prepare for changing weather conditions as the weekend begins. Friday night's showers could leave some roads wet early Saturday, while gusty winds may be noticeable on exposed bridges and highway stretches. However, the supplied forecast does not establish icy roads, snow accumulation or confirmed weather related closures. Sunday's dry conditions should provide a more favorable setting for outdoor travel and recreation.
Gradual Warming Begins Monday The colder pattern will begin easing Monday, October 19, as afternoon temperatures climb to approximately 59 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Monday night should remain partly cloudy, with temperatures falling to around 45 degrees. Although mornings will remain cool, the afternoon recovery marks the beginning of a gradual warming trend across the Annandale area.
Tuesday brings a more noticeable improvement, with sunny skies and a high near 65 degrees. Wednesday should remain sunny with another high around 65, while Thursday is forecast to reach approximately 63 degrees. Overnight temperatures are expected to remain in the upper 40s Tuesday and Wednesday nights, reducing the likelihood of another morning as cold as Sunday within the available forecast period.
For residents across Fairfax County and nearby Washington suburbs, the main weather development is the transition from Friday's warmth to a chilly Sunday morning, followed by several days of sunshine and more comfortable afternoon temperatures.
Will the colder temperatures change your Sunday morning plans across Northern Virginia?
Five Day Weather Outlook Friday 10/16: A high near 82 degrees is expected, with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms during portions of the day. Showers become likely Friday night, with an 80% precipitation chance and temperatures falling near 49 degrees.
Saturday 10/17: A 30% chance of showers is expected before 8 a.m., followed by gradually clearing skies and a high near 54 degrees. North winds could gust to 30 mph before temperatures fall to approximately 37 degrees Saturday night.
Sunday 10/18: Sunny skies are expected following a chilly morning, with temperatures reaching approximately 56 degrees during the afternoon. Mostly clear conditions should continue Sunday night, allowing temperatures to fall near 40 degrees.
Monday 10/19: Mostly sunny skies and a high near 59 degrees are forecast, providing a modest recovery from the weekend's colder conditions. Partly cloudy skies are expected Monday night, with temperatures falling to approximately 45 degrees.
Tuesday 10/20: Sunny skies and warmer afternoon temperatures return, with a high near 65 degrees. Mostly clear conditions are expected Tuesday night, with temperatures falling to around 48 degrees as the warming trend continues.
Extended Outlook Wednesday, October 21, is forecast to be sunny with a high near 65 degrees and a nighttime low around 47. Thursday, October 22, should remain sunny with a high near 63 degrees.