Slush to Snow: The District Braces for a Significant Sunday Night Transition
A Cold and Damp Start to Sunday
Washington, D.C. is waking up to a soggy and chilly Sunday, February 22, 2026. Current observations from Reagan National Airport show temperatures sitting at a stagnant 38°F with a persistent light rain. Early commuters and morning joggers may notice a few snowflakes mixing in with the drizzle before 9:00 a.m., but the warm pavement will prevent any immediate sticking. Humidity is high at 89%, and a light northeast wind is adding a bite to the air, making it feel closer to freezing.
Midday Rain and Afternoon Transitions
The weather is expected to remain primarily in a rain phase through the late morning and early afternoon. Between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., the District will see consistent rainfall as temperatures struggle to climb, eventually reaching a daily high of only 38°F. However, the atmosphere will begin to shift after 1:00 p.m. as the rain begins to mix back with snow. This "back-and-forth" precipitation is a precursor to a more significant winter event scheduled for this evening.
Evening Alert: The Big Shift to Snow
The primary concern for the D.C. area begins tonight. Meteorologists are tracking a low-pressure system that will drop temperatures to a low of 32°F, triggering a full transition to snow after 8:00 p.m. As the air column cools, the light rain will give way to a steady snowfall that is expected to accumulate through the overnight hours. Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly after dark, with slick spots forming on bridges and overpasses as the rain-soaked surfaces begin to freeze.
Winter Weather Advisory and Safety Notices
The National Weather Service has officially placed the District under a Winter Weather Advisory, which remains in effect from 5:00 p.m. today through 10:00 a.m. Monday morning. Key details of the forecast include:
- Snow Totals: Residents should prepare for 2 to 4 inches of new snow accumulation by Monday’s morning commute, though some localized areas may see slightly higher amounts.
- Wind Gusts: North winds will pick up tonight, with gusts ranging between 30 and 45 mph, which may cause blowing snow and significantly reduced visibility.
- Hazardous Travel: The combination of wet roads and freezing temperatures will make travel hazardous tonight. The Capital Weather Gang has assigned a Snow Potential Index of 8/10 for the overnight hours.
The storm is expected to linger into early Monday morning before tapering off. Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items and allow for extra travel time if they must be on the roads tonight.