Washington, D.C., residents are waking up to a wintery mix of freezing rain and sleet that’s already making roads, sidewalks, and bridges dangerously slick. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory in effect until 10:00 AM EST today, warning that even a light glaze of ice can cause major headaches for anyone heading out this morning. If you’re commuting, leave early, drive slowly, and expect delays—this isn’t the morning to rush.
What to Expect Today (Thursday, February 6)
It’s a messy start to the day, with freezing rain and sleet coating surfaces during the early morning hours. As temperatures rise, the freezing rain will gradually transition into regular rain by mid-morning. But don’t let that fool you—roads, bridges, and sidewalks may remain slippery for hours.
- Morning: Breezy with freezing rain and sleet early, transitioning to rain after sunrise. A few rumbles of thunder can’t be ruled out.
- Afternoon: Rain clears up, giving way to breaks of sunshine.
- High Temperature: 56°F (13°C)
- Low Temperature: 39°F (4°C)
If you’re heading outside, watch your step. Icy surfaces could make even a short walk dangerous, and untreated stairs or driveways are accident hotspots.
The Days Ahead: A Rollercoaster of Rain, Cold, and Sunshine
- Friday, February 7: Breezy with intervals of clouds and sun. Highs around 52°F (11°C) and lows near 27°F (-3°C).
- Saturday, February 8: A cooler day with cloudy skies and afternoon rain. Expect highs of 40°F (5°C) and lows of 37°F (3°C).
- Sunday, February 9: Breezy, but clouds will break for some sunshine by midday. Temperatures will reach 51°F (11°C) during the day and drop to 30°F (-1°C) at night.
- Monday, February 10: Overcast with periods of wet snow in the afternoon. Highs near 44°F (6°C) and lows around 33°F (0°C).
Why Today’s Weather Is Particularly Hazardous
Even a thin layer of ice on roads and sidewalks can cause serious accidents. Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than other surfaces, which is why they’re among the most dangerous spots to drive on during freezing rain events. Pedestrians should also be extra cautious—slipping on an icy staircase or sidewalk can lead to serious injuries.
The timing of this weather event is what makes it especially tricky. Freezing rain and sleet began overnight, and with temperatures just at or below freezing early in the morning, roads and walkways became icy before many commuters even realized it. As the day warms up, conditions will improve, but until then, it’s critical to stay alert.
Safety Tips for Dealing with Ice and Sleet
- Slow Down When Driving: Ice is often invisible, especially in the early morning. Drive slowly and give yourself plenty of time to stop. Be especially careful on bridges, ramps, and overpasses.
- Don’t Slam the Brakes: If you hit an icy patch, avoid sudden braking. Instead, gently ease off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go.
- Watch Your Step: Sidewalks, driveways, and stairs could be coated in a thin layer of ice. Walk slowly and wear shoes with good traction.
- Leave Early: Give yourself extra travel time so you can drive or walk cautiously without feeling rushed.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local weather updates and road conditions before heading out.
When Will the Ice Melt?
Fortunately, today’s ice isn’t sticking around for long. As the sun rises and temperatures climb above freezing by late morning, much of the icy glaze should start to melt. By the afternoon, most areas will see rain tapering off and the return of some sunshine. However, untreated surfaces could remain slick, especially in shaded areas, so stay cautious even after conditions improve.
The Bottom Line
This is the kind of morning where being cautious can make all the difference. If you’re driving, take it slow and watch for icy patches on bridges and overpasses. If you’re walking, tread carefully and avoid running or taking shortcuts across untreated surfaces. By the afternoon, the worst of the weather will be behind us, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
And don’t forget—after today’s brief break from the cold, another round of wintry weather could arrive next week. Stay prepared, and keep that winter gear handy
