The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory from Wednesday at 8 a.m. through 6 p.m.
NWS forecasters expect rain to turn to snow with accumulations of 2 to 5 inches or more in the northern and western suburbs by Wednesday afternoon, with temperatures in the lower to middle 30s.
The heaviest snow will occur through 2 p.m., NWS said. Snow will taper off late Wednesday.
Roads may become snow covered and slippery, which will have a significant impact on holiday travel plans for Wednesday.
"Heavy amounts of wet snow may cause downed trees that lead to an enhanced threat for power outages."
The weather alert comes as residents prepare to embark on potentially the busiest travel day of the year. AAA Mid-Atlantic estimates that 90 percent will drive to their holiday destination on what might be treacherous roadways.
“Wednesday can turn into a chaotic and frightening scene of events on the roadways along the East Coast,” Tammy Arnette, Public Affairs Specialist for AAA Mid-Atlantic, said. “With over one million travelers in Virginia taking to the roads this Wednesday, AAA is warning motorists to heed all travel warnings and stay home until road conditions improve.”
Individuals traveling by airplane along the East Coast could also face long delays and cancelled flights, Arnette said.
Bristow Beat will continue to monitor the weather and provide updates.
Support Bristow Beat - Donate Today!