Winter Storm Warning Issued: Up To 8 Inches Of Snow To Hit D.C., Maryland, And Virginia

A winter storm is expected to blanket the Mid-Atlantic with heavy snow beginning Tuesday, prompting a Winter Storm Warning for the District of Columbia, central and southern Maryland, and parts of Virginia. — Credit – National Weather Service

CALIFORNIA, Md. — A winter storm is expected to blanket the Mid-Atlantic with heavy snow beginning Tuesday, prompting a Winter Storm Warning for the District of Columbia, central and southern Maryland, and parts of Virginia.

The National Weather Service in Baltimore and Washington issued the warning Monday afternoon, cautioning residents that 4 to 8 inches of snow could accumulate between 1 p.m. Tuesday and 7 a.m. Wednesday. Forecasters predict snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour during the height of the storm Tuesday afternoon and evening, making travel treacherous.

“This will be a high-impact event for the Tuesday evening commute, with rapidly accumulating snow leading to hazardous road conditions,” said NWS meteorologist. “Drivers should expect significantly reduced visibility and delays.”

Snow is expected to begin late Tuesday morning and intensify in the afternoon, falling steadily through the evening. A light wintry mix may persist into Wednesday morning, though little to no additional accumulation is expected.

Authorities are urging residents to prepare for possible disruptions. The Maryland State Highway Administration said crews are pre-treating roads and will deploy plows as conditions worsen. Virginia Department of Transportation officials also warned of the potential for icy conditions, advising commuters to stay off the roads if possible.

Air travel could also see delays and cancellations, with major airports in the region—Reagan National, Dulles International, and Baltimore-Washington International—monitoring the storm’s impact.

The NWS advises residents to monitor updates and take necessary precautions. “If you must travel, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle and allow extra time to reach your destination,” Collins said.

The storm comes as the region experiences an active winter pattern, with meteorologists tracking additional systems later in the week.