Following an icy snowstorm that swept through the Washington, D.C. region over the weekend, forecasters are warning residents to prepare for several days of extreme cold, even as sunshine returns. While Tuesday will feature clear skies and bright conditions, temperatures will remain dangerously low, keeping snow and ice firmly in place across much of the area.
According to 7News First Alert Chief Meteorologist Veronica Johnson, early Tuesday morning temperatures are expected to fall an additional 5 to 10 degrees compared to previous days. The frigid air mass moving into the region will be accompanied by strong wind chills, making it feel as though temperatures are hovering between 5 and 10 degrees below zero in some locations. Johnson noted that these wind chill values are among the coldest the area has experienced in quite some time.
The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory for the D.C. metropolitan area, effective until 11 a.m. Tuesday, cautioning residents about the risks associated with prolonged exposure to dangerously low temperatures. Meteorologists are urging people to take precautions, including wearing multiple layers, insulated boots, gloves, and other protective winter clothing.
Despite the bitter start to the day, Tuesday will bring abundant sunshine, with afternoon highs expected to reach the lower to mid-20s. While the sun may help with limited surface melting, temperatures will remain too cold to significantly reduce ice and snow accumulation. As a result, many roads, sidewalks, and untreated surfaces will stay slick and hazardous, even after hundreds of snowplows worked Monday to clear primary and secondary routes.
Transportation services across the region are also being impacted. Metro temporarily suspended all bus service overnight due to road conditions, with routes expected to return gradually as conditions improve. Metrorail service is scheduled to resume at 6 a.m. Tuesday, operating on a weekend schedule with trains arriving every 15 to 30 minutes. Officials said service frequency may increase later in the day depending on conditions, and riders are encouraged to check WMATA’s website before traveling.
Widespread closures remain in effect as cleanup efforts continue. Many school districts in Maryland and Virginia are closed, along with D.C. Public Schools. Federal government offices will also remain closed Tuesday.
Looking ahead, forecasters warn that the cold pattern will persist through midweek. Wednesday may bring another chance of light snow during the evening hours, along with gusty winds and highs remaining in the mid-20s. By Thursday, another surge of Arctic air is expected, keeping temperatures well below average and wind chills near zero.
Meteorologists advise residents to continue exercising caution while traveling and to remain prepared for prolonged winter conditions across the region.
