Washington, D.C. – Hey D.C., get ready! Winter’s coming in strong with some freezing rain and icy roads tomorrow morning. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 AM to 11 AM Thursday, warning of dangerous conditions that could cause problems for your commute. Whether you’re driving or walking, make sure you’re prepared for icy patches, slippery sidewalks, and black ice, especially during the busy morning rush.
What’s Happening?
A quick-moving system is bringing cold temperatures and freezing rain to the area, which will create a layer of ice on pretty much everything—roads, sidewalks, and bridges. The rain will freeze on contact, causing dangerously slippery conditions. These icy conditions will stick around until 11 AM Thursday, so if you need to head out, expect slippery streets, poor visibility, and possible delays.
- Freezing Rain: Expect a light layer of ice on roads, sidewalks, and bridges, with black ice being especially dangerous on elevated surfaces like overpasses and bridges.
- Road Conditions: Roads will get slick, especially on bridges and overpasses, where freezing happens quicker. The freezing rain will also cause low visibility, so stay alert.
- Timing: The advisory is in effect from 7 AM to 11 AM Thursday, with the worst conditions expected right before and during the morning commute.
How This Affects You
- Roads: Expect icy patches and black ice on the roads, especially during the morning. Bridges and overpasses will freeze more quickly, so take it slow, leave extra space between vehicles, and allow yourself more time to get to your destination.
- Visibility: The freezing rain will cause foggy conditions, reducing visibility on the roads. Be sure to keep your headlights on and stay extra cautious, particularly on bridges and elevated roads.
- Pedestrian Safety: Sidewalks and driveways will be slippery, so if you’re walking, wear shoes with good traction and watch your step to avoid falls.
What You Can Do
- Drive with care. If you must drive, slow down, keep a safe distance between cars, and don’t rush. The roads will be slick, and rushing will only increase your risk.
- Expect delays. Plan for extra travel time. If possible, avoid traveling between 7 AM and 11 AM, when conditions will be at their worst.
- Stay informed. Keep an eye on weather updates and road conditions throughout the morning. Use traffic apps or check local news to get the latest updates.
When Will It End?
The advisory expires at 11 AM Thursday, but don’t be fooled—roads will remain slick for a while after that. Caution is still key, even once the advisory ends.
While this storm won’t be anything major, the freezing rain will still create dangerous conditions. If you can, stay off the roads during the worst of it and let the conditions improve. If you absolutely must go out, take it slow, keep your distance from other vehicles, and stay safe. Stay updated, be prepared for ice, and stay warm out there!
