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Icy mix spreading across area, hazardous travel this evening (UPDATES) Icy mix spreading across area, hazardous travel this evening (UPDATES)
(35 minutes later)
* Winter storm warning through 6 a.m. for entire area except for southern Maryland and Stafford County which are under a winter weather advisory through 3 a.m. ** Winter storm warning through 6 a.m. for entire area except for southern Maryland and Stafford County which are under a winter weather advisory through 3 a.m. *
Snow total reports from NWS | Heavy snow snarls traffic, leaves homeless out in the coldSnow total reports from NWS | Heavy snow snarls traffic, leaves homeless out in the cold
[Full D.C. area forecast for today and beyond][Full D.C. area forecast for today and beyond]
Key pointsKey points
8:48 p.m. update: With the sleet and freezing rain on top of the snow, the roads have turned into ice skating rinks.
Madison St in #Oldtown #alexandriava is now a sheet of ice @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/DIPA3Robpq — molly gannon (@mollygannon) February 22, 2015
Madison St in #Oldtown #alexandriava is now a sheet of ice @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/DIPA3Robpq
— molly gannon (@mollygannon) February 22, 2015
Current radar shows sleet and freezing rain has pushed north, and now rain is spreading across the southern half of the D.C. area. As the temperature climbs, we’ll see the rain line push farther north through midnight. The temperature at Reagan National was 34 degrees at 8 p.m.
8:10 p.m. update: Roads are nasty! Hopefully people are staying indoors this evening, but we understand many of you need to head out there for work. If you do try and drive somewhere, you’re going to need a lot of extra time and ample caution.8:10 p.m. update: Roads are nasty! Hopefully people are staying indoors this evening, but we understand many of you need to head out there for work. If you do try and drive somewhere, you’re going to need a lot of extra time and ample caution.
Woodley Rd in DC. Great place to get video. Terrible place to drive. #SnowDay9 @wusa9 @TenaciousTopper @ericagrow pic.twitter.com/JwnSTqI2qe — Mola Lenghi (@MolaReports) February 22, 2015Woodley Rd in DC. Great place to get video. Terrible place to drive. #SnowDay9 @wusa9 @TenaciousTopper @ericagrow pic.twitter.com/JwnSTqI2qe — Mola Lenghi (@MolaReports) February 22, 2015
Woodley Rd in DC. Great place to get video. Terrible place to drive. #SnowDay9 @wusa9 @TenaciousTopper @ericagrow pic.twitter.com/JwnSTqI2qeWoodley Rd in DC. Great place to get video. Terrible place to drive. #SnowDay9 @wusa9 @TenaciousTopper @ericagrow pic.twitter.com/JwnSTqI2qe
— Mola Lenghi (@MolaReports) February 22, 2015— Mola Lenghi (@MolaReports) February 22, 2015
7:52 p.m. update: Well, we can officially confirm the flashes and the power outages first hand in Arlington. Two or three blue flashes lit up the sky across the Cherrydale and Ballston neighborhoods of Arlington around 7:50 p.m., and the power has been going on and off, coinciding with the flashes. Others on social media have reported total power outages in Falls Church and Arlington.7:52 p.m. update: Well, we can officially confirm the flashes and the power outages first hand in Arlington. Two or three blue flashes lit up the sky across the Cherrydale and Ballston neighborhoods of Arlington around 7:50 p.m., and the power has been going on and off, coinciding with the flashes. Others on social media have reported total power outages in Falls Church and Arlington.
bright green flash north of ballston, towards cherrydale, followed by another. @ARLnowDOTcom @capitalweather — mc (@papertigrrr) February 22, 2015bright green flash north of ballston, towards cherrydale, followed by another. @ARLnowDOTcom @capitalweather — mc (@papertigrrr) February 22, 2015
bright green flash north of ballston, towards cherrydale, followed by another. @ARLnowDOTcom @capitalweatherbright green flash north of ballston, towards cherrydale, followed by another. @ARLnowDOTcom @capitalweather
— mc (@papertigrrr) February 22, 2015— mc (@papertigrrr) February 22, 2015
@capitalweather power outage at our apartment complex in courthouse on Lee hwy — Clint Petty (@ClintoriousJCP) February 22, 2015@capitalweather power outage at our apartment complex in courthouse on Lee hwy — Clint Petty (@ClintoriousJCP) February 22, 2015
@capitalweather power outage at our apartment complex in courthouse on Lee hwy@capitalweather power outage at our apartment complex in courthouse on Lee hwy
— Clint Petty (@ClintoriousJCP) February 22, 2015— Clint Petty (@ClintoriousJCP) February 22, 2015
Almost looked like lightning but was green flash. @capitalweather @dougkammerer — BMK (@BrianKal) February 22, 2015Almost looked like lightning but was green flash. @capitalweather @dougkammerer — BMK (@BrianKal) February 22, 2015
Almost looked like lightning but was green flash. @capitalweather @dougkammererAlmost looked like lightning but was green flash. @capitalweather @dougkammerer
— BMK (@BrianKal) February 22, 2015— BMK (@BrianKal) February 22, 2015
Was probably the lightning reported. Power outages, too. RT @ChasLum: Power transformer blowing in #FallsChurch! pic.twitter.com/VUiQn3IKMi — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 22, 2015Was probably the lightning reported. Power outages, too. RT @ChasLum: Power transformer blowing in #FallsChurch! pic.twitter.com/VUiQn3IKMi — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 22, 2015
Was probably the lightning reported. Power outages, too. RT @ChasLum: Power transformer blowing in #FallsChurch! pic.twitter.com/VUiQn3IKMiWas probably the lightning reported. Power outages, too. RT @ChasLum: Power transformer blowing in #FallsChurch! pic.twitter.com/VUiQn3IKMi
— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 22, 2015— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 22, 2015
7:40 p.m. update: The radar indication of sleet all the way up in Frederick County has been confirmed by ground reports on social media, so thanks to everyone who’s been tracking the storm with us tonight!7:40 p.m. update: The radar indication of sleet all the way up in Frederick County has been confirmed by ground reports on social media, so thanks to everyone who’s been tracking the storm with us tonight!
As you can see in our radar loop above, a break in the precipitation is moving ever-so-slowly to the east, having just crossed over I-81. This weakening is also showing up in the high resolution models. Here’s a loop of “future radar” starting at 7 p.m. and ending at Midnight. This model suggests precipitation will switch over to almost entirely sleet and/or freezing rain, and also weakens at the same time. This will come as good news to the road crews that have been trying to keep up with the snow and ice this evening. A few road reports below the radar…As you can see in our radar loop above, a break in the precipitation is moving ever-so-slowly to the east, having just crossed over I-81. This weakening is also showing up in the high resolution models. Here’s a loop of “future radar” starting at 7 p.m. and ending at Midnight. This model suggests precipitation will switch over to almost entirely sleet and/or freezing rain, and also weakens at the same time. This will come as good news to the road crews that have been trying to keep up with the snow and ice this evening. A few road reports below the radar…
Area road reports:Area road reports:
@capitalweather @WTOPtraffic Here's the Beltway outer loop right now approaching River Road. It's moving, but slowly. pic.twitter.com/eaV7LtewZM — Angela GreilingKeane (@agreilingkeane) February 22, 2015@capitalweather @WTOPtraffic Here's the Beltway outer loop right now approaching River Road. It's moving, but slowly. pic.twitter.com/eaV7LtewZM — Angela GreilingKeane (@agreilingkeane) February 22, 2015
@capitalweather @WTOPtraffic Here's the Beltway outer loop right now approaching River Road. It's moving, but slowly. pic.twitter.com/eaV7LtewZM@capitalweather @WTOPtraffic Here's the Beltway outer loop right now approaching River Road. It's moving, but slowly. pic.twitter.com/eaV7LtewZM
— Angela GreilingKeane (@agreilingkeane) February 22, 2015— Angela GreilingKeane (@agreilingkeane) February 22, 2015
'Nuf said. Stay home. Per WTOP's @DickUliano: Traffic is at stand still on interloop of beltway @ New Hampshire Ave. pic.twitter.com/slLNMBBkv0” — Rebecca Cooper Dupin (@ABC7Rebecca) February 22, 2015'Nuf said. Stay home. Per WTOP's @DickUliano: Traffic is at stand still on interloop of beltway @ New Hampshire Ave. pic.twitter.com/slLNMBBkv0” — Rebecca Cooper Dupin (@ABC7Rebecca) February 22, 2015
'Nuf said. Stay home. Per WTOP's @DickUliano: Traffic is at stand still on interloop of beltway @ New Hampshire Ave. pic.twitter.com/slLNMBBkv0”'Nuf said. Stay home. Per WTOP's @DickUliano: Traffic is at stand still on interloop of beltway @ New Hampshire Ave. pic.twitter.com/slLNMBBkv0”
— Rebecca Cooper Dupin (@ABC7Rebecca) February 22, 2015— Rebecca Cooper Dupin (@ABC7Rebecca) February 22, 2015
Streets horrible on Wisconsin ave and Fulton, DC. @capitalweather @Toppersweather #DCsnow pic.twitter.com/pSOuFkpjjj — SnowBroette (@SnowBroette) February 22, 2015Streets horrible on Wisconsin ave and Fulton, DC. @capitalweather @Toppersweather #DCsnow pic.twitter.com/pSOuFkpjjj — SnowBroette (@SnowBroette) February 22, 2015
Streets horrible on Wisconsin ave and Fulton, DC. @capitalweather @Toppersweather #DCsnow pic.twitter.com/pSOuFkpjjjStreets horrible on Wisconsin ave and Fulton, DC. @capitalweather @Toppersweather #DCsnow pic.twitter.com/pSOuFkpjjj
— SnowBroette (@SnowBroette) February 22, 2015— SnowBroette (@SnowBroette) February 22, 2015
We’ve also seen reports of a blown transformer in Falls Church which lit up the sky with multiple blue flashes, and subsequent power outages have been reported in Arlington.We’ve also seen reports of a blown transformer in Falls Church which lit up the sky with multiple blue flashes, and subsequent power outages have been reported in Arlington.
Was probably the lightning reported. Power outages, too. RT @ChasLum: Power transformer blowing in #FallsChurch! pic.twitter.com/VUiQn3IKMi — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 22, 2015Was probably the lightning reported. Power outages, too. RT @ChasLum: Power transformer blowing in #FallsChurch! pic.twitter.com/VUiQn3IKMi — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 22, 2015
Was probably the lightning reported. Power outages, too. RT @ChasLum: Power transformer blowing in #FallsChurch! pic.twitter.com/VUiQn3IKMiWas probably the lightning reported. Power outages, too. RT @ChasLum: Power transformer blowing in #FallsChurch! pic.twitter.com/VUiQn3IKMi
— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 22, 2015— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 22, 2015
7:11 p.m. update: Heavy snow continues to fall across the areas that haven’t already changed over to sleet. Some snowflakes might be mixing in around the near western suburbs. Reports form Loudoun have come in suggesting that they are changing over to sleet now, and radar indicates that wintry mix could stretch all the way up into Frederick at this point, but it’s still probably mostly snow in our far north and northwest suburbs.7:11 p.m. update: Heavy snow continues to fall across the areas that haven’t already changed over to sleet. Some snowflakes might be mixing in around the near western suburbs. Reports form Loudoun have come in suggesting that they are changing over to sleet now, and radar indicates that wintry mix could stretch all the way up into Frederick at this point, but it’s still probably mostly snow in our far north and northwest suburbs.
In the meantime, roads are still a mess out there.In the meantime, roads are still a mess out there.
Still pretty icky conditions on Georgia Ave, just south of Petworth metro. CC @capitalweather @PoPville pic.twitter.com/qboDSwRJWU — Ashley Evans (@AVEvans) February 22, 2015Still pretty icky conditions on Georgia Ave, just south of Petworth metro. CC @capitalweather @PoPville pic.twitter.com/qboDSwRJWU — Ashley Evans (@AVEvans) February 22, 2015
Still pretty icky conditions on Georgia Ave, just south of Petworth metro. CC @capitalweather @PoPville pic.twitter.com/qboDSwRJWUStill pretty icky conditions on Georgia Ave, just south of Petworth metro. CC @capitalweather @PoPville pic.twitter.com/qboDSwRJWU
— Ashley Evans (@AVEvans) February 22, 2015— Ashley Evans (@AVEvans) February 22, 2015
Wet & Slushy at F&20th @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/LVeUUVGZY0 — Ben Shepherd (@shep_ben) February 21, 2015Wet & Slushy at F&20th @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/LVeUUVGZY0 — Ben Shepherd (@shep_ben) February 21, 2015
Wet & Slushy at F&20th @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/LVeUUVGZY0Wet & Slushy at F&20th @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/LVeUUVGZY0
— Ben Shepherd (@shep_ben) February 21, 2015— Ben Shepherd (@shep_ben) February 21, 2015
7 p.m. temperatures:7 p.m. temperatures:
6:30 p.m. update: The Storm Prediction Center has issued a statement regarding the potential for heavy snow in some of our northwest suburbs.6:30 p.m. update: The Storm Prediction Center has issued a statement regarding the potential for heavy snow in some of our northwest suburbs.
The center is concerned about the period through 9 or 10 p.m. for the area outlined in blue below. A nose of warm air loft — the same reason the snow is changing over to sleet and then rain — is expected to also intensify the rate of snowfall to as much as 1 inch per hour in areas that remain well below freezing (ie. our far north and northwest suburbs).The center is concerned about the period through 9 or 10 p.m. for the area outlined in blue below. A nose of warm air loft — the same reason the snow is changing over to sleet and then rain — is expected to also intensify the rate of snowfall to as much as 1 inch per hour in areas that remain well below freezing (ie. our far north and northwest suburbs).
Since we’ve already seen the transition to sleet occur into the northern suburbs, this statement is most applicable to western Loudoun and Frederick counties in our area. But over the next few hours these areas will also change to sleet — they might just have some very heavy snow before that transition occurs.Since we’ve already seen the transition to sleet occur into the northern suburbs, this statement is most applicable to western Loudoun and Frederick counties in our area. But over the next few hours these areas will also change to sleet — they might just have some very heavy snow before that transition occurs.
In the meantime, most areas in the Beltway and to the east have switched over to sleet, though we’re getting reports of precipitation changing back over to snow in the western suburbs (Sterling, Chantilly, etc.). This isn’t surprising, and it might even switch back to snow for a bit in parts of the Beltway, but eventually sleet and then rain will prevail, tonight.In the meantime, most areas in the Beltway and to the east have switched over to sleet, though we’re getting reports of precipitation changing back over to snow in the western suburbs (Sterling, Chantilly, etc.). This isn’t surprising, and it might even switch back to snow for a bit in parts of the Beltway, but eventually sleet and then rain will prevail, tonight.
#Sleet is falling heavily at times here in Washington, DC @capitalweather @alexliggitt @fox5newsdc @dougkammerer pic.twitter.com/3sjNovdMYl — Potomac Weather (@PotomacWx) February 21, 2015#Sleet is falling heavily at times here in Washington, DC @capitalweather @alexliggitt @fox5newsdc @dougkammerer pic.twitter.com/3sjNovdMYl — Potomac Weather (@PotomacWx) February 21, 2015
#Sleet is falling heavily at times here in Washington, DC @capitalweather @alexliggitt @fox5newsdc @dougkammerer pic.twitter.com/3sjNovdMYl#Sleet is falling heavily at times here in Washington, DC @capitalweather @alexliggitt @fox5newsdc @dougkammerer pic.twitter.com/3sjNovdMYl
— Potomac Weather (@PotomacWx) February 21, 2015— Potomac Weather (@PotomacWx) February 21, 2015
5:50 p.m. update: As sleet is starting to end snow accumulation in many areas from the Beltway and points south, here’s a preliminary take on how much snow fell:5:50 p.m. update: As sleet is starting to end snow accumulation in many areas from the Beltway and points south, here’s a preliminary take on how much snow fell:
The District: 3-5 inches (SE to NW) Fairfax County: 3-8 inches (E to W) Prince George’s County: 2-6 inches (S to N) Loudoun County: 5-10 inches Montgomery County: 4-9 inches (SE to NW) Anne Arundel County: 1-6 inches (S to N) Howard County: 5-10 inches (E to W) Calvert County: Around 1 inch St. Mary’s County: Less than 1 inch Stafford County: 1-3 inches Prince William County: 2-6 inches (SE to NW) Fauquier County: 3-7 inches (S to N) Frederick County, Md: 5-10 inchesThe District: 3-5 inches (SE to NW) Fairfax County: 3-8 inches (E to W) Prince George’s County: 2-6 inches (S to N) Loudoun County: 5-10 inches Montgomery County: 4-9 inches (SE to NW) Anne Arundel County: 1-6 inches (S to N) Howard County: 5-10 inches (E to W) Calvert County: Around 1 inch St. Mary’s County: Less than 1 inch Stafford County: 1-3 inches Prince William County: 2-6 inches (SE to NW) Fauquier County: 3-7 inches (S to N) Frederick County, Md: 5-10 inches
These totals are based on NWS and reader reports. Do they seem more or less right?These totals are based on NWS and reader reports. Do they seem more or less right?
5:35 p.m. update: The snow is transitioning to sleet in Fairfax, Arlington, and the District according to reports, so expect little additional snow accumulation from D.C. south although snow may alternate with sleet a bit over the next hour before sleet wins the battle.5:35 p.m. update: The snow is transitioning to sleet in Fairfax, Arlington, and the District according to reports, so expect little additional snow accumulation from D.C. south although snow may alternate with sleet a bit over the next hour before sleet wins the battle.
.@capitalweather Just changed from snow to sleet in upper NW. — Luis Hernandez (@Luisindc18) February 21, 2015.@capitalweather Just changed from snow to sleet in upper NW. — Luis Hernandez (@Luisindc18) February 21, 2015
.@capitalweather Just changed from snow to sleet in upper NW..@capitalweather Just changed from snow to sleet in upper NW.
— Luis Hernandez (@Luisindc18) February 21, 2015— Luis Hernandez (@Luisindc18) February 21, 2015
Changed to sleet in Arlington @capitalweather — Kyle Olmstead (@weatherspyer) February 21, 2015Changed to sleet in Arlington @capitalweather — Kyle Olmstead (@weatherspyer) February 21, 2015
Changed to sleet in Arlington @capitalweatherChanged to sleet in Arlington @capitalweather
— Kyle Olmstead (@weatherspyer) February 21, 2015— Kyle Olmstead (@weatherspyer) February 21, 2015
Snow has started mixing with sleet in Alexandria. @ericagrow @capitalweather @ameliasegal @EileenABC7 — Kevin Wagner (@weatherwagner) February 21, 2015Snow has started mixing with sleet in Alexandria. @ericagrow @capitalweather @ameliasegal @EileenABC7 — Kevin Wagner (@weatherwagner) February 21, 2015
Snow has started mixing with sleet in Alexandria. @ericagrow @capitalweather @ameliasegal @EileenABC7Snow has started mixing with sleet in Alexandria. @ericagrow @capitalweather @ameliasegal @EileenABC7
— Kevin Wagner (@weatherwagner) February 21, 2015— Kevin Wagner (@weatherwagner) February 21, 2015
Here are some nice pictures coming in of the snow as the snow phase of this storm ends…Here are some nice pictures coming in of the snow as the snow phase of this storm ends…
@capitalweather this snow is no joke- It's looking a lot like Christmas in dupont! pic.twitter.com/D7iqTXFvIo — Heejin Hwang (@heejin_hwang) February 21, 2015@capitalweather this snow is no joke- It's looking a lot like Christmas in dupont! pic.twitter.com/D7iqTXFvIo — Heejin Hwang (@heejin_hwang) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather this snow is no joke- It's looking a lot like Christmas in dupont! pic.twitter.com/D7iqTXFvIo@capitalweather this snow is no joke- It's looking a lot like Christmas in dupont! pic.twitter.com/D7iqTXFvIo
— Heejin Hwang (@heejin_hwang) February 21, 2015— Heejin Hwang (@heejin_hwang) February 21, 2015
So much snow in #ArlingtonVA. So magical. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/aHAQxu4JNB — Mina Radman (@minaradman) February 21, 2015So much snow in #ArlingtonVA. So magical. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/aHAQxu4JNB — Mina Radman (@minaradman) February 21, 2015
So much snow in #ArlingtonVA. So magical. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/aHAQxu4JNBSo much snow in #ArlingtonVA. So magical. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/aHAQxu4JNB
— Mina Radman (@minaradman) February 21, 2015— Mina Radman (@minaradman) February 21, 2015
Frozen National Cathedral. #dc #Snow @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/YHTfAUSYqO — Mary Lucas (@marketermary) February 21, 2015Frozen National Cathedral. #dc #Snow @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/YHTfAUSYqO — Mary Lucas (@marketermary) February 21, 2015
Frozen National Cathedral. #dc #Snow @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/YHTfAUSYqOFrozen National Cathedral. #dc #Snow @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/YHTfAUSYqO
— Mary Lucas (@marketermary) February 21, 2015— Mary Lucas (@marketermary) February 21, 2015
So much snow on Thomas Circle. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/GabwRbvTek — Kaitlin Yarnall (@kaityarnall) February 21, 2015So much snow on Thomas Circle. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/GabwRbvTek — Kaitlin Yarnall (@kaityarnall) February 21, 2015
So much snow on Thomas Circle. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/GabwRbvTekSo much snow on Thomas Circle. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/GabwRbvTek
— Kaitlin Yarnall (@kaityarnall) February 21, 2015— Kaitlin Yarnall (@kaityarnall) February 21, 2015
5:10 p.m. update: The National Weather Service has expanded the winter storm warning to cover the District, Prince George’s and Anne Arundel County and all areas inside the Beltway through 6 a.m. However, these particular locations probably won’t see a lot more snow accumulation as the sleet transition is happening or about to. Even so, temperatures will remain below freezing for a few more hours, at least, so conditions will remain hazardous outside.5:10 p.m. update: The National Weather Service has expanded the winter storm warning to cover the District, Prince George’s and Anne Arundel County and all areas inside the Beltway through 6 a.m. However, these particular locations probably won’t see a lot more snow accumulation as the sleet transition is happening or about to. Even so, temperatures will remain below freezing for a few more hours, at least, so conditions will remain hazardous outside.
4:55 p.m. update: Even as we watch the snow transition to sleet from south to north, temperatures are still well below freezing. It will probably take until between 8 p.m. and midnight for temperatures to edge to freezing or a little above from south to north. In other words, expect road conditions to remain hazardous with frozen precipitation falling for the balance of the evening.4:55 p.m. update: Even as we watch the snow transition to sleet from south to north, temperatures are still well below freezing. It will probably take until between 8 p.m. and midnight for temperatures to edge to freezing or a little above from south to north. In other words, expect road conditions to remain hazardous with frozen precipitation falling for the balance of the evening.
The map below shows temperatures and a radar screenshot from around 4:45 p.m. You can see the sleet into Stafford County — it’s advancing north pretty quickly and most spots from the District south should see some mixing between 5 and 6 p.m. Mixing should advance into our northern suburbs between 6 and 7 p.m.The map below shows temperatures and a radar screenshot from around 4:45 p.m. You can see the sleet into Stafford County — it’s advancing north pretty quickly and most spots from the District south should see some mixing between 5 and 6 p.m. Mixing should advance into our northern suburbs between 6 and 7 p.m.
We only expect another inch or so snow accumulation (which may include some sleet) from the District south, with perhaps another 1-2 of combined snow and sleet north of the Beltway.We only expect another inch or so snow accumulation (which may include some sleet) from the District south, with perhaps another 1-2 of combined snow and sleet north of the Beltway.
4:35 p.m. update: The mix is coming. But first we may keep cashing in on some heavier snow in the D.C. area as more intense activity moves up from the south. We’ve seen reports on social media of sleet mixing in down near Fredericksburg. Freezing rain and other assorted mixy types are possible too.4:35 p.m. update: The mix is coming. But first we may keep cashing in on some heavier snow in the D.C. area as more intense activity moves up from the south. We’ve seen reports on social media of sleet mixing in down near Fredericksburg. Freezing rain and other assorted mixy types are possible too.
Radar confirms the mix advancement to the north with some “bright banding” on the normal view (below left), and areas indicative of being “not snow” on dual polarization (below right).Radar confirms the mix advancement to the north with some “bright banding” on the normal view (below left), and areas indicative of being “not snow” on dual polarization (below right).
Temperatures are continuing to slowly climb on a south wind both at the surface and aloft. More and more mix is likely heading into the evening. The HRRR model shows what it envisions for this mix across the area at 7 p.m. below.Temperatures are continuing to slowly climb on a south wind both at the surface and aloft. More and more mix is likely heading into the evening. The HRRR model shows what it envisions for this mix across the area at 7 p.m. below.
4:00 p.m. update: Lots of general snow pictures, and lots of ruler pictures. Based on all the great snow measurement reports, it seems we’re up to about 3-7 inches locally, perhaps a bit less well south and east and a bit more in a spot or the snowiest spots.4:00 p.m. update: Lots of general snow pictures, and lots of ruler pictures. Based on all the great snow measurement reports, it seems we’re up to about 3-7 inches locally, perhaps a bit less well south and east and a bit more in a spot or the snowiest spots.
Damascus – 9 inches (link) Sterling – 7.5 inches (link) Aspen Hill – 6.75 inches (link) Gaithersburg – 6.2 inches (link) Bethesda – 6 inches (link) Haymarket – 6 inches (link) Ashburn – 5.5 inches (link) Silver Spring – 4.5 inches (link) Michigan Park – 3 inches (link)Damascus – 9 inches (link) Sterling – 7.5 inches (link) Aspen Hill – 6.75 inches (link) Gaithersburg – 6.2 inches (link) Bethesda – 6 inches (link) Haymarket – 6 inches (link) Ashburn – 5.5 inches (link) Silver Spring – 4.5 inches (link) Michigan Park – 3 inches (link)
3:40 p.m. update: So. Many. Snow. Pictures. Here are a few from recently across the area:3:40 p.m. update: So. Many. Snow. Pictures. Here are a few from recently across the area:
So we saw this guy kite snowboarding on the @NationalMallNPS. Is that a thing?! #DC @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/tBRpocDTLQ — Lizabeth B (@lizabethbel) February 21, 2015So we saw this guy kite snowboarding on the @NationalMallNPS. Is that a thing?! #DC @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/tBRpocDTLQ — Lizabeth B (@lizabethbel) February 21, 2015
So we saw this guy kite snowboarding on the @NationalMallNPS. Is that a thing?! #DC @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/tBRpocDTLQSo we saw this guy kite snowboarding on the @NationalMallNPS. Is that a thing?! #DC @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/tBRpocDTLQ
— Lizabeth B (@lizabethbel) February 21, 2015— Lizabeth B (@lizabethbel) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather enough said. pic.twitter.com/g0atXIEOy7 — Jackson Proskow (@JProskowGlobal) February 21, 2015@capitalweather enough said. pic.twitter.com/g0atXIEOy7 — Jackson Proskow (@JProskowGlobal) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather enough said. pic.twitter.com/g0atXIEOy7@capitalweather enough said. pic.twitter.com/g0atXIEOy7
— Jackson Proskow (@JProskowGlobal) February 21, 2015— Jackson Proskow (@JProskowGlobal) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather in columbia pic.twitter.com/6MGZ7w1843 — Lindsay Spencer (@linspence126) February 21, 2015@capitalweather in columbia pic.twitter.com/6MGZ7w1843 — Lindsay Spencer (@linspence126) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather in columbia pic.twitter.com/6MGZ7w1843@capitalweather in columbia pic.twitter.com/6MGZ7w1843
— Lindsay Spencer (@linspence126) February 21, 2015— Lindsay Spencer (@linspence126) February 21, 2015
I love snow in #DC! Too bad the view at the #WashingtonMonument wasn't great today. @NationalMallNPS @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/ffakPJVQta — Lizabeth B (@lizabethbel) February 21, 2015I love snow in #DC! Too bad the view at the #WashingtonMonument wasn't great today. @NationalMallNPS @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/ffakPJVQta — Lizabeth B (@lizabethbel) February 21, 2015
I love snow in #DC! Too bad the view at the #WashingtonMonument wasn't great today. @NationalMallNPS @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/ffakPJVQtaI love snow in #DC! Too bad the view at the #WashingtonMonument wasn't great today. @NationalMallNPS @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/ffakPJVQta
— Lizabeth B (@lizabethbel) February 21, 2015— Lizabeth B (@lizabethbel) February 21, 2015
Heavy snow in Arlington. @capitalweather #Snowmageddon2015 pic.twitter.com/mUGDtC4VSq — Colleen Shogan (@cshogan276) February 21, 2015Heavy snow in Arlington. @capitalweather #Snowmageddon2015 pic.twitter.com/mUGDtC4VSq — Colleen Shogan (@cshogan276) February 21, 2015
Heavy snow in Arlington. @capitalweather #Snowmageddon2015 pic.twitter.com/mUGDtC4VSqHeavy snow in Arlington. @capitalweather #Snowmageddon2015 pic.twitter.com/mUGDtC4VSq
— Colleen Shogan (@cshogan276) February 21, 2015— Colleen Shogan (@cshogan276) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather #snow in upper Northwest #WashingtonDC near #silverspring pic.twitter.com/t85vroqTgf — Metal Floss (@MetalFloss) February 21, 2015@capitalweather #snow in upper Northwest #WashingtonDC near #silverspring pic.twitter.com/t85vroqTgf — Metal Floss (@MetalFloss) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather #snow in upper Northwest #WashingtonDC near #silverspring pic.twitter.com/t85vroqTgf@capitalweather #snow in upper Northwest #WashingtonDC near #silverspring pic.twitter.com/t85vroqTgf
— Metal Floss (@MetalFloss) February 21, 2015— Metal Floss (@MetalFloss) February 21, 2015
3:05 p.m. update: If you’re looking for some sign of improvement, we are starting to see temperatures slowly warm. Everyone has now climbed out of the teens and is solidly in the 20s (low 20s north of D.C. to mid-20s from D.C. to the south). But it’s still going to take until at least this evening until we start flirting with the freezing mark in the immediate metro area and points north. Meanwhile, another band of heavier snow is crossing the area from west to east as seen below.3:05 p.m. update: If you’re looking for some sign of improvement, we are starting to see temperatures slowly warm. Everyone has now climbed out of the teens and is solidly in the 20s (low 20s north of D.C. to mid-20s from D.C. to the south). But it’s still going to take until at least this evening until we start flirting with the freezing mark in the immediate metro area and points north. Meanwhile, another band of heavier snow is crossing the area from west to east as seen below.
Another heavier snow band moving through DC area from west to east pic.twitter.com/rJhS9odmiz — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015Another heavier snow band moving through DC area from west to east pic.twitter.com/rJhS9odmiz — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015
Another heavier snow band moving through DC area from west to east pic.twitter.com/rJhS9odmizAnother heavier snow band moving through DC area from west to east pic.twitter.com/rJhS9odmiz
— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015
Outside of this band, snow is generally lighter than it has been. But whatever falls is still accumulating, now up to 3″ at American University in D.C., 6.8″ at Dulles and 2″ in Fairfax. Here are more totals from the National Weather Service, though note that some are dated. Still looking at a transition from snow to sleet and freezing rain (from south to north) after 5 p.m. or so. http://www.washingtonpost.com/posttv/local/social-video-captures-dc-snowfall/2015/02/21/825ce9f2-ba03-11e4-bc30-a4e75503948a_video.html 2:15 p.m. update: Snow continues to fall moderate to heavy in many places. Radar shows a bit of drier air trying to work in from the west, and that combined with what short-term models show suggests that the snow may lighten during the 3-5 p.m. period. Road conditions probably don’t improve much, though, and precipitation may still get heavier again after 5 p.m., as sleet and freezing rain likely start to mix in from south to north.Outside of this band, snow is generally lighter than it has been. But whatever falls is still accumulating, now up to 3″ at American University in D.C., 6.8″ at Dulles and 2″ in Fairfax. Here are more totals from the National Weather Service, though note that some are dated. Still looking at a transition from snow to sleet and freezing rain (from south to north) after 5 p.m. or so. http://www.washingtonpost.com/posttv/local/social-video-captures-dc-snowfall/2015/02/21/825ce9f2-ba03-11e4-bc30-a4e75503948a_video.html 2:15 p.m. update: Snow continues to fall moderate to heavy in many places. Radar shows a bit of drier air trying to work in from the west, and that combined with what short-term models show suggests that the snow may lighten during the 3-5 p.m. period. Road conditions probably don’t improve much, though, and precipitation may still get heavier again after 5 p.m., as sleet and freezing rain likely start to mix in from south to north.
1:45 p.m. update: Hopefully word has gotten out that roads stink and you are in a safe place enjoying watching the snow out your window this afternoon. The snow is piling up nicely with the National Weather Service reporting the following accumulations so far: Frederick (3″), Ellicott City (2″), Germantown (4″), Rockville (1.5″), Wheaton (1.4″), Arlington (1″), Vienna (2″), Leesburg (4″). Note that these totals are all from the 12-1 p.m. hour and have certainly grown since. Recent totals reported on American Weather have Frederick at 5″, Clarksburg at 5.4″ and Purcelville at 5.25″. CWG’s Camden Walker has the report from the University of Maryland…1:45 p.m. update: Hopefully word has gotten out that roads stink and you are in a safe place enjoying watching the snow out your window this afternoon. The snow is piling up nicely with the National Weather Service reporting the following accumulations so far: Frederick (3″), Ellicott City (2″), Germantown (4″), Rockville (1.5″), Wheaton (1.4″), Arlington (1″), Vienna (2″), Leesburg (4″). Note that these totals are all from the 12-1 p.m. hour and have certainly grown since. Recent totals reported on American Weather have Frederick at 5″, Clarksburg at 5.4″ and Purcelville at 5.25″. CWG’s Camden Walker has the report from the University of Maryland…
1:15 p.m. update: Flakes have gone from small to big in many areas and the snow is accumulating fast. Generally we’re hearing reports so far of 2-4″ and counting in the north and west suburbs, and 1-2″ and counting from D.C. to the south and east. Snow has been especially intense north and west of D.C., but just about everyone probably sees periods of heavy snow the next few hours, during which time we could add another 2-4″ on top of what’s already fallen. Roads are awful. Stay home!1:15 p.m. update: Flakes have gone from small to big in many areas and the snow is accumulating fast. Generally we’re hearing reports so far of 2-4″ and counting in the north and west suburbs, and 1-2″ and counting from D.C. to the south and east. Snow has been especially intense north and west of D.C., but just about everyone probably sees periods of heavy snow the next few hours, during which time we could add another 2-4″ on top of what’s already fallen. Roads are awful. Stay home!
RT @Hi2213Cp: Biggest flakes I have ever seen in Ashburn, VA. pic.twitter.com/lN9WuXZbHM — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015RT @Hi2213Cp: Biggest flakes I have ever seen in Ashburn, VA. pic.twitter.com/lN9WuXZbHM — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015
RT @Hi2213Cp: Biggest flakes I have ever seen in Ashburn, VA. pic.twitter.com/lN9WuXZbHMRT @Hi2213Cp: Biggest flakes I have ever seen in Ashburn, VA. pic.twitter.com/lN9WuXZbHM
— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015
1:20 PM #Snow | 4 Inches in Germantown, MD…2 Inches in the last hour @ABC7News @DevonLucie @JacquiJeras pic.twitter.com/4CIoU6UvgO — DMV Forecaster (@DMVForecaster) February 21, 20151:20 PM #Snow | 4 Inches in Germantown, MD…2 Inches in the last hour @ABC7News @DevonLucie @JacquiJeras pic.twitter.com/4CIoU6UvgO — DMV Forecaster (@DMVForecaster) February 21, 2015
1:20 PM #Snow | 4 Inches in Germantown, MD…2 Inches in the last hour @ABC7News @DevonLucie @JacquiJeras pic.twitter.com/4CIoU6UvgO — DMV Forecaster (@DMVForecaster) February 21, 20151:20 PM #Snow | 4 Inches in Germantown, MD…2 Inches in the last hour @ABC7News @DevonLucie @JacquiJeras pic.twitter.com/4CIoU6UvgO — DMV Forecaster (@DMVForecaster) February 21, 2015
12:30 p.m. update: The winter storm warning has now been expanded southward on the west side of D.C. to include Fairfax, Prince William and southern Fauquier counties, where the National Weather Service is calling for 3-6″ of snow, and then a trace to a few hundredths of an inch of ice. The warning, which now covers all the north and west suburbs, is in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday. 12: 10 p.m. update: Well, the current traffic pattern sure does match up well with where we’ve seen the most and heaviest snow so far…12:30 p.m. update: The winter storm warning has now been expanded southward on the west side of D.C. to include Fairfax, Prince William and southern Fauquier counties, where the National Weather Service is calling for 3-6″ of snow, and then a trace to a few hundredths of an inch of ice. The warning, which now covers all the north and west suburbs, is in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday. 12: 10 p.m. update: Well, the current traffic pattern sure does match up well with where we’ve seen the most and heaviest snow so far…
This is what happens when it snows at a decent rate with a cold ground and temperatures in the teens to near 20. Road treatments don’t accomplish much at these temperatures, and it’s hard for snow plows to keep up.This is what happens when it snows at a decent rate with a cold ground and temperatures in the teens to near 20. Road treatments don’t accomplish much at these temperatures, and it’s hard for snow plows to keep up.
11:40 a.m. update: Moderate snow continues to fall all across the area, with pockets of heavier snow especially northwest and west of D.C., with a half-inch to inch of snow already accumulated in many spots. Looking at radar and all the model information available, it sure looks like snow totals will end up toward the higher end of the ranges on our map above. Many roads are snow covered and treacherous as you can see below.11:40 a.m. update: Moderate snow continues to fall all across the area, with pockets of heavier snow especially northwest and west of D.C., with a half-inch to inch of snow already accumulated in many spots. Looking at radar and all the model information available, it sure looks like snow totals will end up toward the higher end of the ranges on our map above. Many roads are snow covered and treacherous as you can see below.
RT @SilverSpringJoe: OL beltway at the big curve. pic.twitter.com/7eVK91DQLO — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015RT @SilverSpringJoe: OL beltway at the big curve. pic.twitter.com/7eVK91DQLO — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015
RT @SilverSpringJoe: OL beltway at the big curve. pic.twitter.com/7eVK91DQLO — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015RT @SilverSpringJoe: OL beltway at the big curve. pic.twitter.com/7eVK91DQLO — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) February 21, 2015
11:10 a.m. update: Snow is now falling just about everywhere locally, and it is moderate to heavy for a good chunk of the western part of the region. It will pick up further east as an intense area of snow pushes into and through the immediate area. Rates up to and even past 1 inch per hour are a good bet in the heaviest activity.11:10 a.m. update: Snow is now falling just about everywhere locally, and it is moderate to heavy for a good chunk of the western part of the region. It will pick up further east as an intense area of snow pushes into and through the immediate area. Rates up to and even past 1 inch per hour are a good bet in the heaviest activity.
10:50 a.m. update: Within 20 minutes of beginning, snow has become steady and is sticking to roads in the city. That’s generally the case everywhere as it begins. This is just the beginning of a lengthy slug of moisture pointed at the area with this system.10:50 a.m. update: Within 20 minutes of beginning, snow has become steady and is sticking to roads in the city. That’s generally the case everywhere as it begins. This is just the beginning of a lengthy slug of moisture pointed at the area with this system.
And while we expect temperatures to climb both aloft and here at the ground with time, ultimately changing us over to a wintry mix from snow, above freezing temperatures are nowhere to be found locally right now.And while we expect temperatures to climb both aloft and here at the ground with time, ultimately changing us over to a wintry mix from snow, above freezing temperatures are nowhere to be found locally right now.
10:25 a.m. update: We can confirm the first flakes are falling in D.C. now. Here’s a look at current conditions to the west. Be careful if out and about, everything’s turning white again rather quick.10:25 a.m. update: We can confirm the first flakes are falling in D.C. now. Here’s a look at current conditions to the west. Be careful if out and about, everything’s turning white again rather quick.
One hour later #snOMG @AccuRayno @JustinWeather @capitalweather @islivingston @FredScanner @wbalradio @MascoFromABC2 pic.twitter.com/FbOOZFUw4l — Brandy Culbertson (@majikposhun) February 21, 2015One hour later #snOMG @AccuRayno @JustinWeather @capitalweather @islivingston @FredScanner @wbalradio @MascoFromABC2 pic.twitter.com/FbOOZFUw4l — Brandy Culbertson (@majikposhun) February 21, 2015
One hour later #snOMG @AccuRayno @JustinWeather @capitalweather @islivingston @FredScanner @wbalradio @MascoFromABC2 pic.twitter.com/FbOOZFUw4lOne hour later #snOMG @AccuRayno @JustinWeather @capitalweather @islivingston @FredScanner @wbalradio @MascoFromABC2 pic.twitter.com/FbOOZFUw4l
— Brandy Culbertson (@majikposhun) February 21, 2015— Brandy Culbertson (@majikposhun) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather road conditions in Ashburn are getting to be pretty bad with moderate to heavy snow. pic.twitter.com/ND9tOASStp — kishan modali (@kishanmodali120) February 21, 2015@capitalweather road conditions in Ashburn are getting to be pretty bad with moderate to heavy snow. pic.twitter.com/ND9tOASStp — kishan modali (@kishanmodali120) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather road conditions in Ashburn are getting to be pretty bad with moderate to heavy snow. pic.twitter.com/ND9tOASStp@capitalweather road conditions in Ashburn are getting to be pretty bad with moderate to heavy snow. pic.twitter.com/ND9tOASStp
— kishan modali (@kishanmodali120) February 21, 2015— kishan modali (@kishanmodali120) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather Frederick is coated pic.twitter.com/rvHoLCCZmp — Devin Moore (@devinnotkevin) February 21, 2015@capitalweather Frederick is coated pic.twitter.com/rvHoLCCZmp — Devin Moore (@devinnotkevin) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather Frederick is coated pic.twitter.com/rvHoLCCZmp@capitalweather Frederick is coated pic.twitter.com/rvHoLCCZmp
— Devin Moore (@devinnotkevin) February 21, 2015— Devin Moore (@devinnotkevin) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather Check out the snow on route 27! pic.twitter.com/DIV2afIV9G — Carroll County (@CarrollWeather) February 21, 2015@capitalweather Check out the snow on route 27! pic.twitter.com/DIV2afIV9G — Carroll County (@CarrollWeather) February 21, 2015
@capitalweather Check out the snow on route 27! pic.twitter.com/DIV2afIV9G@capitalweather Check out the snow on route 27! pic.twitter.com/DIV2afIV9G
— Carroll County (@CarrollWeather) February 21, 2015— Carroll County (@CarrollWeather) February 21, 2015
2 inches 4 miles WSW of Front Royal. Moderate snow. @alexliggitt @NWS_BaltWash @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/0FAbrgZy55 — Mike Stinneford (@MikeSABC7wx) February 21, 20152 inches 4 miles WSW of Front Royal. Moderate snow. @alexliggitt @NWS_BaltWash @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/0FAbrgZy55 — Mike Stinneford (@MikeSABC7wx) February 21, 2015
2 inches 4 miles WSW of Front Royal. Moderate snow. @alexliggitt @NWS_BaltWash @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/0FAbrgZy552 inches 4 miles WSW of Front Royal. Moderate snow. @alexliggitt @NWS_BaltWash @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/0FAbrgZy55
— Mike Stinneford (@MikeSABC7wx) February 21, 2015— Mike Stinneford (@MikeSABC7wx) February 21, 2015
10:10 a.m. update: Snow is coming, about right on schedule. The front edge is currently lined up with I-95 and is about to push east across the city. We can’t stress enough that this is all sticking immediately, and untreated roads/sidewalks/etc. are likely to become a problem pretty quick.10:10 a.m. update: Snow is coming, about right on schedule. The front edge is currently lined up with I-95 and is about to push east across the city. We can’t stress enough that this is all sticking immediately, and untreated roads/sidewalks/etc. are likely to become a problem pretty quick.
It has begun in earnest in Reston. @capitalweather — Brian McNicoll (@McNicollb) February 21, 2015It has begun in earnest in Reston. @capitalweather — Brian McNicoll (@McNicollb) February 21, 2015
It has begun in earnest in Reston. @capitalweatherIt has begun in earnest in Reston. @capitalweather
— Brian McNicoll (@McNicollb) February 21, 2015— Brian McNicoll (@McNicollb) February 21, 2015
Lightly snowing in Manassas, starting to cover the road already. @capitalweather @WTOP #longdayahead pic.twitter.com/VpAojPhMQZ — Angie Wanner (@angielynn10) February 21, 2015Lightly snowing in Manassas, starting to cover the road already. @capitalweather @WTOP #longdayahead pic.twitter.com/VpAojPhMQZ — Angie Wanner (@angielynn10) February 21, 2015
Lightly snowing in Manassas, starting to cover the road already. @capitalweather @WTOP #longdayahead pic.twitter.com/VpAojPhMQZLightly snowing in Manassas, starting to cover the road already. @capitalweather @WTOP #longdayahead pic.twitter.com/VpAojPhMQZ
— Angie Wanner (@angielynn10) February 21, 2015— Angie Wanner (@angielynn10) February 21, 2015
Nacho checking out the falling snow on Ashburn. #loudoun @capitalweather @WTOP #vasnow pic.twitter.com/pWYI80lYtn — Guillermo Meneses (@Gil_Meneses) February 21, 2015Nacho checking out the falling snow on Ashburn. #loudoun @capitalweather @WTOP #vasnow pic.twitter.com/pWYI80lYtn — Guillermo Meneses (@Gil_Meneses) February 21, 2015
Nacho checking out the falling snow on Ashburn. #loudoun @capitalweather @WTOP #vasnow pic.twitter.com/pWYI80lYtnNacho checking out the falling snow on Ashburn. #loudoun @capitalweather @WTOP #vasnow pic.twitter.com/pWYI80lYtn
— Guillermo Meneses (@Gil_Meneses) February 21, 2015— Guillermo Meneses (@Gil_Meneses) February 21, 2015
9:40 a.m. initial post:  Snow is racing through the area, now about to meet up with most of the I-95 corridor.  Thus far, snow is mainly light to occasionally moderate in intensity, but some heavier bursts are also embedded.9:40 a.m. initial post:  Snow is racing through the area, now about to meet up with most of the I-95 corridor.  Thus far, snow is mainly light to occasionally moderate in intensity, but some heavier bursts are also embedded.
Short-term modeling and weather radar both suggest we’re in for a snowy rest of the daylight period.Short-term modeling and weather radar both suggest we’re in for a snowy rest of the daylight period.
Below is a look at what the HRRR thinks radar will do into the evening. Note that it expects snow to hang on into evening before any major changeover, something we also anticipate ourselves.Below is a look at what the HRRR thinks radar will do into the evening. Note that it expects snow to hang on into evening before any major changeover, something we also anticipate ourselves.