The weather in Washington DC 10 days forecast shows that a major winter storm is set to hit the region this weekend, bringing heavy snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures, followed by a prolonged period of bitter cold and variable wintry conditions.
Washington DC is entering one of the most impactful winter weather stretches in recent memory. Emergency weather alerts, including winter storm warnings and cold advisories, are in effect. This means residents should prepare for hazardous travel, significant snow accumulations, sleet and freezing rain, and very low temperatures throughout the next ten days.
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Current Situation: Winter Storm and Cold Air
A powerful winter storm is forecast to impact the Washington DC area from late Saturday night through Monday morning. Heavy snow is expected initially, with sleet and freezing rain possible as temperatures hover around the freezing mark. Snow accumulations are predicted to range from several inches to over a foot in some areas, especially north of the city. Ice accumulation is also likely, raising the risk of power outages and dangerously slick surfaces.
Following the storm, bitterly cold Arctic air will settle in, with daily highs staying well below seasonal norms. Wind chill values will often make it feel even colder, especially overnight and during early mornings.
10-Day Forecast for Washington DC
Here’s a day-by-day outlook for the weather in Washington DC over the next ten days:
Day 1 – Saturday (Today):
Mostly cloudy and very cold during the day. High temperatures remain in the 20s. Clouds thicken ahead of the impending storm.
Day 2 – Sunday:
Heavy snow begins late Saturday night and continues into Sunday morning. Snow is expected to accumulate several inches. Later in the day, sleet and freezing rain may mix in, especially in areas south and east of the city, making travel extremely hazardous.
Day 3 – Monday:
Lingering snow or flurries in the morning before clearing. High winds and bitter cold with temperatures in the upper 20s. Wind chill values may feel much colder.
Day 4 – Tuesday:
Cold and mostly sunny but still frigid. Highs remain in the low to mid-20s. Expect very low overnight temperatures.
Day 5 – Wednesday:
Mostly cold and dry with a mix of clouds and sun. Daytime highs remain in the 20s.
Day 6 – Thursday:
Cloudy with continued cold. A slight chance of light snow or flurries exists, but major precipitation is not expected.
Day 7 – Friday:
Very cold with partly sunny skies. Highs remain near the low 20s.
Day 8 – Saturday:
Partly cloudy and slightly milder, with highs inching into the upper 20s. Still below typical temperatures for this time of year.
Day 9 – Sunday:
Cold with a chance of light snow or a wintry mix late in the day. Highs remain in the low 30s.
Day 10 – Monday:
Still chilly with partly cloudy skies. High temperatures in the low 30s. Some chance for mixed precipitation as temperatures hover near freezing.
Throughout this period, temperatures will be consistently below or near freezing, especially early in the forecast. Daytime highs struggle to climb, and overnight lows plunge well below freezing on most nights. Snow and ice risk will remain elevated, especially around the core days of the storm.
Key Weather Patterns and Trends
1. Active Winter Storm This Weekend
A significant winter storm is bearing down on Washington DC. Snow will begin late Saturday night, with the most intense snowfall expected Sunday morning. Sleet and freezing rain could develop later in the day, depending on how temperatures and atmospheric layers evolve. Snow totals could reach 6–10 inches or more, with localized higher amounts where precipitation remains snow.
2. Prolonged Bitter Cold
Following the storm, Arctic air will settle in and keep temperatures well below average. Most days will have highs in the 20s and lows in the single digits or teens. Wind chill values will make it feel even colder, increasing the risk of frostbite for anyone exposed to the elements for extended periods.
3. Road and Travel Impacts
Snow and ice will make travel treacherous this weekend. Road crews will work to clear surfaces, but snowpack and icy patches are likely to persist into the middle of the week. Commuters should plan extra time for travel and consider delaying non-essential trips until conditions improve.
What Residents Should Prepare For
- Snow Accumulation: Multiple inches of snow are expected, with significant snowfall Sunday morning. Snow depths could cause dangerous driving conditions and disrupt daily routines.
- Ice Risks: Freezing rain and sleet may lead to ice forming on roads, sidewalks, and power lines. Ice accumulation can cause power outages and tree damage in some areas.
- Cold Temperatures: Following the storm, bitter cold will dominate. Layered clothing, cold weather gear, and precautions against frostbite and hypothermia are essential.
- Hazardous Travel: Roads, bridges, and walkways may be slippery. Reduce speed while driving, allow extra travel time, and keep emergency supplies in vehicles.
Washington DC Climate and Seasonal Context
Washington DC’s typical winter weather includes cold temperatures and occasional snow, but this upcoming period is notable for its intensity and persistence. The combination of a major snow event followed by deep Arctic cold is unusual in its severity, prompting weather alerts and readiness actions from local authorities.
Summary Table – Temperatures & Conditions
| Day | Expected Weather | High °F | Low °F |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday | Cloudy & Cold | ~22 | ~15 |
| Sunday | Snow & Ice | ~28 | ~20 |
| Monday | Windy & Cold | ~28 | ~4 |
| Tuesday | Sunny & Cold | ~24 | ~7 |
| Wednesday | Cold & Cloudy | ~25 | ~10 |
| Thursday | Cloudy & Cold | ~22 | ~8 |
| Friday | Partly Sunny & Cold | ~23 | ~14 |
| Saturday | Partly Cloudy | ~27 | ~16 |
| Sunday | Snow Chance | ~31 | ~20 |
| Monday | Cold & Mixed | ~33 | ~16 |
This 10-day outlook highlights ongoing below-freezing temperatures and continued potential for snow and mixed precipitation, especially early in the forecast.
Prepare for the coming winter weather and let us know how this forecast matches your local experience. Comment below and stay informed about evolving conditions!
