If you’ve been enjoying the mild winter days in D.C., don’t get too comfortable—this weekend is about to throw us a curveball. A cold rainstorm is moving in, bringing steady showers, gusty winds, and temperatures that will go from chilly to mild and then take a sharp nosedive again. If you’ve got weekend plans, you might want to rethink them because it’s going to be a messy mix of wet and cold.
Saturday: Cold, Rainy, and Pretty Miserable
Saturday is looking like a washout. The day starts off cloudy, and by midday, the rain moves in—steady, soaking, and lasting well into the night. On top of that, temperatures will barely make it past 38°F (3°C), making the damp air feel even colder.
By the evening, things could get dicey. As the temperature dips to around 34°F (1°C), areas just outside the city—especially in Maryland and northern Virginia—might see a wintry mix of sleet or freezing rain. That means roads could get slick, and driving might be tricky, especially on bridges and overpasses. If you don’t have to go out, it’s probably best to stay in.
Sunday: A Quick Warm-Up Before Another Cold Plunge
Here’s where things get weird. Sunday morning will still be damp and cloudy, but by the afternoon, temperatures will suddenly jump up to 58°F (14°C). If you step outside midday, you might not even need a heavy coat—but don’t let that fool you.
By the evening, another cold front moves in, and the temperature drops like a rock—back down to freezing overnight. That quick shift could create some slick spots on the roads, so if you’re heading out Sunday night, be careful.
How This Affects Your Weekend Plans
- Saturday? Forget about it. If you were planning anything outdoors, you might want to reschedule. It’s going to be wet and miserable.
- Sunday is your window. It’ll be warmer for a few hours in the afternoon, but that won’t last.
- Travelers, pay attention. If you’re driving outside the city, especially north or west, check the forecast. Parts of Maryland and West Virginia are under winter storm watches and wind advisories.
How to Stay Ahead of the Weather
- Check the forecast often – Things can change quickly with a storm like this.
- Drive carefully – Wet roads could freeze overnight, especially in the suburbs.
- Layer up – Waterproof gear is a must for Saturday, and layers will help with Sunday’s temperature swings.
- Sign up for AlertDC – Get real-time weather and safety updates straight to your phone.
Final Thoughts
This weekend’s weather is all over the place—cold rain, a quick warm-up, and then another freezing night. If you want to avoid the worst of it, Saturday is a good day to stay in with a hot drink and a good movie. If you need to get out, keep an eye on the forecast and be ready for anything. Stay warm, D.C.!
