Near or over a foot of snow realistic for some spots

By Dan Stillman

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Jump to: Accumulation Map & Timeline | Impact Forecasts | Storm FAQ

True, this is just about the time with some D.C. area snowstorms that the computer models suddenly throw a curveball, some forecasters start to backpedal from their original accumulation predictions, and chaos ensues. Not so this time, at least not as of this morning's latest data, which continues to suggest a major winter storm is on track to wallop the metro area.

Something interesting to keep an eye on -- or really, ear out for -- during this storm is thunder. Yes, I said thunder. Thundersnow is rare, but not uncommon when it comes to powerful winter storms like this one, which can generate the strong vertical motions in the atmosphere needed to create lightning. The most likely time for thundersnow would be during the most intense part of the storm, which shapes up to be Saturday morning into afternoon.

ACCUMULATION MAP AND TIMELINE

Accumulation map updated as of 11:45 a.m.

7 PM FRI to 1 AM SAT

Snow develops from south to north. Upper 20s to low 30s.

1 AM to 7 AM SAT

Accumulating snow with increasing winds. Mid-to-upper 20s.

7 AM to 10 PM SAT

Snow continues, moderate to heavy at times, with heavy accumulations possible. Windy. Mid-20s to near 30.

10 PM SAT to 6 AM SUN

Snow tapers from southwest to northeast. 20s.

6 AM to 12 PM SUN

Breezy with a chance of snow showers. Little or no additional accumulation expected. Low-to-mid 30s.



IMPACT FORECASTS

STORM FAQ

How confident are you in your forecast? Thanks to fairly consistent agreement among the computer models we use to guide our forecasts, confidence in at least about 6 inches of snow is higher than for most storms. Confidence is also increasing that parts of the metro area will see amounts approaching or surpassing a foot.

Have more questions? We might have answers. Click here for more FAQs.