You’ve stepped outside today and immediately felt that sharp, biting air hit your face. It’s officially a "triple layer" kind of morning in the District. Honestly, after the weirdly mild fluctuations we’ve seen lately, this current weather wash dc situation is a slap of reality.
Right now, the mercury is sitting at a crisp 30°F, but don't let that number fool you. With the wind kicking in from the west at about 7 mph, the "feels like" temperature is actually hovering around 22°F. Basically, if you aren't wearing a scarf, you’re doing it wrong.
What’s Actually Happening Outside Right Now
The sky is mostly cloudy, which is typical for a mid-January day in the Mid-Atlantic. We’re looking at a high of 37°F later today. It’s not exactly "balmy," but it’s a slight improvement from the morning deep freeze. Humidity is sitting at 38%, so the air has that dry, static-y quality that ruins your hair and makes your skin feel like parchment paper.
UV index? It’s a 1. You’re safe from the sun, but you might want to worry more about the 8% chance of snow flurries mentioned in the latest local data. It’s not enough to warrant a grocery store milk-and-bread run, but it’s enough to make the commute look a little cinematic.
The Saturday Shift
Tonight, things get a bit more interesting. We’re looking at a low of 23°F with a 35% chance of rain and snow moving in after midnight.
If you have early Saturday plans, keep an eye on the sky. Meteorologists at the National Weather Service and local outlets like WUSA9 are tracking a disturbance that could bring a light snow/rain mix between 6 a.m. and noon tomorrow. It’s the kind of "conversational snow" that the Capital Weather Gang often talks about—enough to notice, but probably not enough to break out the shovel. Highs for Saturday will actually jump up to the mid-40s, which is a weirdly generous gift before the next Arctic blast arrives.
The Polar Vortex is Making a Guest Appearance
There is a bigger story here than just a few clouds. The "Polar Vortex"—that phrase everyone loves to hate—is officially back.
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According to reports from the Washington Post, a massive dip in the jet stream is funneling Arctic air straight down into the East Coast. We are currently in the first of three projected "cold waves." This first one is chilling us through Friday, but the third one—predicted for early next week—is the one that might actually break some spirits.
By Tuesday morning, we’re looking at wind chills that could drop into the sub-zero range. Yes, sub-zero in DC. It’s a massive departure from the record warmth some parts of the country saw earlier this month.
Real Talk on the Forecast
- Today: High of 37°F, mostly cloudy, west winds.
- Tonight: Dropping to 23°F. Keep the pets inside.
- The Weekend: A messy mix on Saturday morning, then a brief "warm-up" to 45°F before Sunday brings the cold back.
- MLK Day: Sunny but struggling to get above freezing.
How to Handle the Next 48 Hours
If you’re heading to the National Mall or just walking the dog in Adams Morgan, gear up. The wind is the real enemy today. While the 7-8 mph speeds seem low, the gusts are hitting harder in the corridors between buildings downtown.
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Check your tire pressure. These rapid drops from the 40s down into the 20s are notorious for triggering those annoying "low pressure" sensors. Also, if you’re a gardener, make sure any sensitive outdoor pots are covered or brought in; we are well past the point of "maybe it won't freeze."
Stay warm. It’s going to be a long, cold stretch.
Next Steps for You:
Check your home's insulation around windows and doors today before the sub-zero wind chills arrive on Tuesday. If you have any travel plans for Saturday morning, allow an extra 15 minutes for potential "slushy" road conditions during the rain/snow transition.