Larry Frum

Blizzard Watch Issued for DC Area; 10-18 Inches Possible

Weather Alert Days declared for Monday, Tuesday

EDITOR'S NOTE: The story below will no longer be updated. See the latest forecast for what could be a crippling, historic snowstorm here.


A blizzard watch has been issued for the D.C. area ahead of a storm that is expected to drop 10 to 18 inches of snow on the area this weekend. 

The watch will be in effect from Friday afternoon through late Saturday night, Storm Team4 says. A blizzard watch means conditions are favorable for a snowstorm with winds exceeding 35 mph.

The heaviest snow is expected Friday night and early Saturday. Downed trees and power outages are possible.

Winter Weather Advisory for Wednesday

But first, Storm Team4 expects light snow -- from a coating up to one inch -- to fall around the area during the evening commute. 

A winter weather advisory has been issued for the D.C. area from 6 p.m. Wednesday until midnight. 

The frigid weather has already closed White's Ferry. The ferry, which connects Loudoun and Montgomery counties, closed Wednesday because of excessive ice on the river. 

Blizzard Watch Begins Friday Afternoon

Then, the main event: At the end of this week, 10 to 18 inches of snow could pile up in the D.C. area, and areas further west could see up to two feet of snow. 

The impact could be significant. Storm Team4 is expecting high drifts of snow, strong winds and frigid temps, with wind chills only in the teens. 

Storm Team4 is continuing to track the forecast.

Doreen Gentzler has some tips on how to stay warm and safe in the cold weather.
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Be on the lookout for homeless people, who could get hypothermia during this cold spell. If you see someone in the D.C. area who needs shelter or warmer clothing, call the following numbers:
  • D.C. -- 1-800-535-7252 or 311
  • Arlington County, Virginia -- 703-527-4077
  • Prince George's County, Maryland -- 888-731-0999
  • Maryland Crisis Hotline -- 301-662-2255
  • Montgomery County, Maryland -- 240-777-4000
  • Fairfax County, Virginia -- 703-691-2131 (non-emergency police number)

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