Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

Air quality Aug 28

How bad is the air quality in the DC area? Enter your ZIP code on this map

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You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

This live blog has ended.

The remnants of Tropical Storm Debby hit the Washington, D.C., area with heavy rain, flooding and a risk of tornadoes.

Most severe weather threats of the storm ended by Friday afternoon, but Storm Team4 said there’s still the potential for spots of heavy rain through the evening. However, the risks for more flooding or tornado watches are over.

LIST: See all weather alerts here.

As Tropical Storm Debby bears down on the East Coast, the storm’s remnants bring heavy rain and possibly flooding to the D.C. area. What’s left of Debby will have the greatest effects through Friday morning. Be prepared for downpours, potential flooding and a small risk of tornadoes.

A tornado watch is in effect until 7 a.m. for D.C. and several counties in Maryland: Montgomery, Prince George’s, Washington and St. Mary’s. There’s also a flood warning in effect until 11:15 a.m. (See more details and other weather alerts below.)

Prince George’s County handed out sandbags to residents Thursday, a day after Alexandria did the same. The Maryland Department of Emergency Management said it’s enhanced its emergency preparations stance, and Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency to mobilize equipment and resources.

Tornado watch issued for the DC area until Friday at 7 a.m.

A tornado watch is in effect until 7 a.m. for D.C.; several counties in Maryland — Montgomery, Prince George’s, Washington and St. Mary’s — and in Northern Virginia for the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Manassas, Manassas Park and Falls Church, plus the counties of Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun, Prince William and Stafford.

A tornado warning was in effect in Northern Virginia in Fauquier County, Loudoun County, Frederick County and Central Clake County until 10:15 p.m. on Thursday.

In Maryland, a tornado warning was issued for central Montgomery County until 6 p.m. Thursday, and early Friday, one was issued for Charles County, Maryland, but was cancelled about 5 a.m.

Flood watch issued in Maryland and Virginia

Keep an umbrella handy Thursday. Steady rain was already falling as of midday in D.C. More rain is expected to pick up overnight, and the worst downpours are expected Friday morning.

Heavy rain could quickly lead to flash and urban flooding, especially in areas prone to flooding like Alexandria, Virginia. Make sure your gutters and storm drains are clear.

Flood watches have been issued for some areas west of the District. Frederick, Maryland, and parts of Northern Virginia, including western Loudoun County and northern Fauquier County, will be under a flood watch from Thursday evening to Friday evening, the National Weather Service said.

Go here to see all weather alerts.

Storm Team4 says areas closer to the D.C. metro area could get flood watches as well. However, the rain is needed after D.C.’s dry summer.

“In our area, this is needed rain. Certainly, there could be some isolated flooding but nothing like what they’re seeing down into parts of the Carolinas,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Amelia Draper said.

Weather Radar

Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to check the weather radar on the go.

There’s a “non-zero chance” for tornadoes as the remnants of the tropical storm near the D.C. area. Keep an eye out for tornado watches and warnings, and make a plan in case severe weather hits your neighborhood.

The rough weather could impact any travel plans.

Heavy rain and potential floods could slow drivers Thursday night and into Friday. Never drive into a flooded road. Remember: Turn around, don’t down.

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Wind restrictions are possible on the Bay Bridge. This storm could also have ripple effects on air travel, so check with your airline before heading to the airport.

The good news? This storm won’t last too long. By Saturday, sunshine is expected to return, along with breezy conditions and highs in the 80s.

How can I prepare for Tropical Storm Debby?

• Make sure storm drains and gutters are clear
• Secure outdoor items such as trash cans and lawn chairs that could get knocked down or blown away
• Keep phones, tablets and laptops charged and have backup charging devices ready
• Have household and food supplies on hand, including medications and pet food
• Make sure cars are serviced and have a full tank of gas
• Have a family emergency plan in place in case of severe flooding and for potential future emergencies

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

D.C. reached 104° Tuesday. Heat indices surpassed 110° in some places across the DMV.

Now, a severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for D.C. and the suburbs until 10 p.m. There could be isolated severe storms through the evening.

Storms could produce wind gusts up to 70 mph, heavy rain downpours in spots and possibly small hail. Tornadoes are not likely.

Metro, MARC and VRE trains operated with speed restrictions Tuesday because of the heat. Metro limited above-ground train speeds to 35 mph across the system as rail temperatures topped 135°, the agency said. The extreme heat can make the rails expand.

Storm Team4 issued a weather alert, and another excessive heat warning was in effect through 8 p.m.

High heat and humidity may result in heat-related illnesses. Stay hydrated, limit strenuous activity outside and find ways to stay cool today.

Excessive heat warnings are in effect for D.C. and parts of Maryland and Virginia, including Prince George’s, Montgomery, Arlington and Fairfax counties. Go here to see all weather alerts.

There is a chance for a few isolated showers and thunderstorms on Tuesday afternoon and evening. Any storms that develop could be severe, like Monday’s storms.

Weather Radar

Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to check the weather radar on the go.

Excessive heat throughout midweek

Wednesday will still be hot, but less sweltering with temperatures in the 90s. More rain is expected on Wednesday, but the good news is that cooler air will come in behind the rain. Expect another severe thunderstorm watch Wednesday afternoon.

You can plan on a little relief from the heat starting Thursday. Then, highs are expected to max out in the upper 80s through Sunday.

That cooldown won’t last long: Expect to face heat advisories or excessive heat warnings again next week.

Heat safety tips

Intense heat can quickly become dangerous. Keep an eye on vulnerable groups including newborns, infants, children and the elderly.

“Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year,” the National Weather Service says.

To stay safe in the heat, stay hydrated and opt for water and sports drinks over sugary beverages. Take shade breaks. Know how to respond to signs of heat-related illness. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities, or move them to the cooler morning hours.

Never leave a pet or kids alone in a parked car. Temperatures in cars can rise to lethal levels within minutes, even with the windows cracked, according to KidsandCars.org.

Wearing loose, light-colored clothing can also help you stay cool.

D.C. says it declares a heat emergency when temperatures or the heat index reach 95°. Cooling centers open during a heat emergency, here’s how to find a cooling center plus free transport.

Spray parks and public pools are another way to cool down.

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Where can you find a cooling center?

Cooling centers are available in D.C., Virginia and Maryland.

In D.C., free transportation to cooling centers is available by calling 202-399-7093 or 311; find other D.C. resources here.

Arlington County is offering shelters and resources during the heat wave. Financial assistance with air conditioning repairs is available by calling 703-228-1350. Shelter for homeless individuals is available by calling 703-228-1010. Find more information here.

Find cooling centers in Alexandria here.

Montgomery County has issued a heat emergency alert starting at 11 a.m. Thursday, lasting until 9 p.m. Saturday; find resources for the county here.

Find cooling centers in Prince George’s County here.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas in Maryland and Virginia. Storms have the potential to be strong to severe with downpours and gusty winds up to 60 mph.

D.C. hit a record-high temperature of 102° on Monday – and it felt like 106° in the afternoon, according to Storm Team4.The last time the region was this hot was July 8, 2012.

If the region hits 101° or hotter tomorrow, it will be three consecutive days at above 101°. This has only happened once before in 1930.

An excessive heat warning was issued for D.C. and parts of Maryland and Virginia, including Prince George’s, Montgomery, Arlington and Fairfax counties. The heat warning will continue through Wednesday, with possible isolated storms Tuesday night and strong to severe storms Wednesday night. Go here to see all weather alerts.

Make sure to practice heat safety and know the signs of heat-related illness. Cooling centers are available in D.C., Virginia and Maryland.

There is also an air quality alert in parts of Maryland, including Prince George’s, Anne Arundel and Montgomery counties. Suburban D.C. is expected to see code yellow air quality on Monday so people sensitive to air quality should take extra precautions. Children, the elderly, those with respiratory issues and other vulnerable populations should not spend a lot of time outdoors. You can check your local air quality on Airnow.gov.

Weather Radar

Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to check the weather radar on the go.

Excessive heat throughout midweek

The heat is expected to peak in intensity on Tuesday. Brace for temps just above 100 degrees with feels-like temperatures up to 111 degrees.

More rain is expected on Wednesday, but the good news is that cooler air will come in behind the rain.

You can plan on a little relief from the heat starting Thursday. Then, highs are expected to max out in the upper 80s through Sunday.

That cooldown won’t last long: Expect to face heat advisories or excessive heat warnings again next week.

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Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

Seven tornadoes tore through West Virginia, Virginia and Maryland Wednesday — an outbreak that left a path of tree and structural damage extending about 100 miles long and injuring five people in Montgomery County, Maryland — the National Weather Service said in a preliminary report Thursday.

Five of the tornadoes came from a single storm, Storm Team4 Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer said.

A powerful storm system spawned the destructive tornadoes, beginning in Inwood, West Virginia, where an EF-0 rated twister hit at 4:04 p.m. and traveled almost a mile over four minutes, reaching an estimated peak strength of 75 mph.

About two-and-a-half hours later, an EF-1 tornado hit in Leesburg, Virginia, for a minute at 6:42 p.m., covering a mile and reaching a strength of 95 mph.

That storm continue to Montgomery County, where at 7:14 p.m., another EF-1 tornado traveled 12 miles from Poolesville to Gaithersburg before ending at 7:42 p.m. That tornado reached a strength of 105 mph and width of 125 yards.

Dozens of trees were snapped or toppled completely by the twister, damaging homes and downing powerlines. Widespread outages were reported.

Martin Perez was at home in Gaithersburg with his wife, daughter and two friends when the tornado struck and high winds toppled a tree onto his home, splitting it in two. They all were rescued and were taken to the hospital.

“To see my daughter screaming, to see your family members scared, you’re scared too. I was very afraid,” Perez said Thursday, after he was released from the hospital.

“I’m devastated to see my family suffering, to see my property and my house damaged,” he said.

The tornado likely caused millions of dollars worth of damage, said Earl Stoddard, director of the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management & Homeland Security.

The storm then continued east to Columbia, where it produced a 95 mph strength, EF-1 tornado at 8:31 p.m. The twister covered a mile over two minutes.

In southern Baltimore County, a fifth tornado struck at 8:45 p.m. and traveled about two-and-a-half miles over seven minutes. It rated EF-1 with peak winds of 105 mph.

A few minutes later, another EF-1 hit briefly to the northeast of Baltimore city in Middle River.

Finally, an EF-0 twister northwest of Baltimore in Carroll County traveled about four-and-a-half miles for about 15 minutes before the outbreak ended.

‘Nature could happen anytime, anywhere’

As residents of Gaithersburg clean up storm damage, some told News4 they will take storm warnings more seriously next time.

“No matter where you live, nature could happen anytime, anywhere,” one man said.

Down the street, a neighbor echoed the sentiment.

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“This was a big wake-up call. It was scary,” she said. “The wind was howling. It sounded like we had a freight train coming through the house. I felt like we were Dorothy in ‘The Wizard of Oz.’ I felt like the house was going to take off.”

“Listen to when they say tornado warning,” she added. “This was the real McCoy and it was very frightening.”

Be cautious when cleaning up, Stoddard told residents, especially while using ladders.

If you see any wires, call officials. Touching a live wire could be fatal.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

At least two tornadoes touched down in Montgomery County on Wednesday, likely causing millions of dollars worth of damage, said Earl Stoddard, director of the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management & Homeland Security.

At least five people were injured but no deaths were reported.

Martin Perez was at home in Gaithersburg with his wife, daughter and two friends when a tornado struck and high winds toppled a tree onto his home, splitting it in two. They all were rescued and were taken to the hospital.

“To see my daughter screaming, to see your family members scared, you’re scared too. I was very afraid,” Perez said Thursday, after he was released from the hospital.

“I’m devastated to see my family suffering, to see my property and my house damaged,” he said.

Two or three tornadoes hit in that area of Montgomery County, with winds high as 105 mph, the National Weather Service said.

Trey Simmons and his little brother surveyed the storm damage on Thursday. A huge tree fell in their backyard and their trampoline was missing.

“I like to do fun flips in it, but it will not let me do fun flips anymore, because the tornado fell it away,” the little boy said.

Their great-grandmother said she had never seen anything like it.

“In 93 years, I’ve never experienced this. That’s amazing, isn’t it?” she said.

The property damage is extensive but Stoddard said he’s thankful no one was killed.

“We got incredibly lucky in Montgomery County with two different tornadoes coming during the peak of rush hour,” Stoddard said. “People home, having dinner in their homes.”

A framed picture could be seen through the torn wall of a home on Thursday morning.

About nine areas received damage “likely caused by tornadoes,” the National Weather Service said in an update Thursday, citing data, photos and videos. Those areas include Gaithersburg, Poolesville, Brookeville, Olney and Arbutus.

The National Weather Service is set to investigate the damage and release more information. They are investigating at least 15 potential tornadoes across Maryland, Stoddard said.

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Reopening roads, cleaning up wires and trees and assisting families whose homes were destroyed are among the top priorities in the cleanup effort, Stoddard said.

‘Nature could happen anytime, anywhere’

As residents of Gaithersburg clean up storm damage, some told News4 they will take storm warnings more seriously next time.

“No matter where you live, nature could happen anytime, anywhere,” one man said.

Down the street, a neighbor echoed the sentiment.

“This was a big wake-up call. It was scary,” she said. “The wind was howling. It sounded like we had a freight train coming through the house. I felt like we were Dorothy in ‘The Wizard of Oz.’ I felt like the house was going to take off.”

“Listen to when they say tornado warning,” she added. “This was the real McCoy and it was very frightening.”

Be cautious when cleaning up, Stoddard told residents, especially while using ladders.

If you see any wires, call officials. Touching a live wire could be fatal.

More severe weather is possible on Thursday. The risk of tornadoes is lower than it was on Wednesday, but rresidents should remain weather alert.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

A long-track twister left its greatest destruction in a residential neighborhood in Gaithersburg, where it felled large trees onto houses. Residents were trapped inside.

In one home along Dogwood Drive, five people were injured, including one person with traumatic injuries, according to Pete Piringer of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue.

“When it came through … it just looked an eerie color and then all of a sudden it happened really fast, and we heard a foundation kind of shake kind of thing,” said one Dogwood Drive resident, who sheltered in her basement with her family.

Multiple tornadoes are believed to have struck. In an update early Thursday, Montgomery County officials said they believe at least two tornadoes tore through the county. The National Weather Service is expected to provide additional information.

There are widespread power outages and downed wires, Piringer said. Debris was strewn across roadways.

Gaithersburg Mayor Jud Ashman said he was relieved that no one was killed.

Dashboard camera video shared with News4 showed debris violently swirling around on a Gaithersburg street and an apparent utility explosion as the tornado moved through.

Mark Monis said he decided to pursue his dream of being a tornado chaser and almost got more than he bargained for.

“I was watching Doug [Kammerer], and he said it was going to be by Gaithersburg High School,” he said. “And I had a dream of chasing tornadoes when I was younger, and I took this opportunity.”

He said what he saw near the intersection of South Frederick Avenue and South Summit Avenue was earth-shaking. Trees and branches started hitting his car.

“You see all the debris flying in here, and I was like, ‘This is probably it, right here,’” Monis said. “I was like, ‘Jesus, this could have been worse.'”

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A potentially deadly tornado was confirmed on the ground in Poolesville, Maryland, at 7:14 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. Piringer said that Montgomery County Fire and RMS communications responded to 35 storm-related incidents between 6 and 8:30 p.m.

Damage and debris have been reported as a tornado moved east at 20-25 mph. The path of damage may start as far west as Leesburg, Virginia, Storm Team4 said, and includes Poolesville, Gaithersburg and Olney, Maryland.

As of 8:50 p.m., the length of the storm’s path — at least of what was warned, not necessarily what was on the ground — was about 60 miles and was still headed toward Baltimore. Tornadoes can skip, Storm Team4 Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer said.

“That is one of, if not the, longest tracks I have ever worked here in the Washington, D.C., area,” Kammerer said. 

The severe weather then moved on toward Howard and Anne Arundel counties, and Baltimore.

The strongest winds associated with the tornado were about 110 mph, according to Storm Team4.

NWS categorized it as a “particularly dangerous situation.” Weather spotters also confirmed the tornado.

The storms also produced a lot of lightning.

Several tornado warnings popped up Wednesday afternoon and evening as Storm Team4 tracked storms in the Washington, D.C., area.

A tornado warning means there is imminent danger and anyone in the area should take steps to protect themselves and their families immediately.

When a tornado warning is in effect, anyone in the area should take cover immediately. The best place to take cover is on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, experts say. Bathrooms and closets are often a good choice so you can avoid windows.

People across the D.C. area saw heavy rain begin before the evening rush hour. A flood watch was issued for parts of Maryland and Virginia through 10 p.m.

Weather radar:

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

It also could be an active season for hurricanes, though conditions could keep them mostly off the coast.

What to know about hurricanes for summer 2024

We’re coming out of El Niño and moving toward La Niña, which helps create hurricanes. And a warmer-than-average Atlantic Ocean could mean more intense hurricanes.

But the Bermuda High — high pressure centered near Bermuda during the summer months — will be further east this summer, which won’t allow the heat to come up from areas such as the Gulf of Mexico. That bodes well for the development of hurricanes. They may occur in the Gulf of Mexico, but storms that form in the Atlantic Ocean may stay out to sea.

The jet stream pattern will move up into Canada before coming down across the D.C. region, creating a trough of low pressure along the East Coast, which should also help keep any hurricanes out to sea.

Expect an above-average storm season, with 16 to 21 named storms (the average is 14) and nine to 11 hurricanes (there’s usually five to seven), with three to five major hurricanes that should stay off the coast.

But in late August, look for the potential of a hurricane which could make its way up the East Coast, hopefully staying just offshore.

What to know about heat & humidity for summer 2024

The jet stream pattern also means the D.C. area shouldn’t see a lot of intense heat. Expect about 38 to 46 days of 90° temps (the average is 45) but no 100° days.

But a more humid season will mean heat indexes rising above 100°.

One to 2.5 inches or more is expected to fall across the D.C. area. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch. You can see all severe weather alerts here.

“We are expecting widespread showers for a good chunk of the day,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Jessica Faith said.

The rain mostly affects any plans for Saturday morning and early afternoon. The Wharf rescheduled their Bloomaroo spring festival to Saturday, March 30 because of the forecast. National Landing’s Pink in the Park has been postponed, as well.

Rain timing

Rain moved in late Friday from the south. The most widespread showers fell on Saturday morning.

Storm Team4’s radar showed many areas with heavy rain between 7 and 11 a.m.

Rain is expected to decrease in coverage and intensity later in the afternoon. The rain will begin to move out in the evening.

“If you want to make any plans for Saturday, the later the better — especially after sunset,” Faith said.

So, your dinner plans should be fine. Keep an umbrella on hand for any lingering wet weather.

This forecast has a silver lining if you’ve been waiting to see the cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin. The cool weather is helping the delicate flowers hang on, and it will likely still be worth visiting the blooms on Sunday.

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Flood watch issued

A flood watch is in effect from Friday night to Saturday afternoon, the National Weather Service said. The flood watch covers much of the D.C. area, including:

• Washington, D.C.
• Calvert, Charles, Frederick, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland
• Arlington County, Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax County, Loudoun County and Prince William County, in Northern Virginia

Watch out for excessive water in flood-prone locations including near rivers and in areas with poor drainage.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

A red flag warning was in effect in Virginia for weather conditions that officials warned could lead to the rapid spread of fire. Temperatures were in the 60s on the fourth day of peak bloom as strong wind gusts stirred up petals and dust.

“Forest/brush fires, WEST of #DC currently spreading smoke across the metro as winds gust. Air quality is down and you’ll smell the smoke,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Ryan Miller wrote on X. 

The largest brush fire was west of D.C., in Page County, Virginia. The county declared an emergency and closed all schools Thursday. Luray High School was used as an evacuation shelter. 

Photos show bright orange and red flames cresting over the mountains in Luray.

In D.C., at least three acres of Rock Creek Park near the Carter Barron Amphitheatre burned, D.C. Fire and Emergency Services said. Firefighters had to pull down a fence to access the flames. 

No homes were damaged, and no injuries were reported, officials said. 

In Prince William County, Virginia, at least 39 brush fires were reported. The majority were small. No injuries or damage was reported, officials said.

The “Satellite Thermal Hotspots and Fire Activity” map was created by Storm Team4’s Ryan Miller with ArcGIS Experience Builder.

In Montgomery County, Maryland, there was a small brush fire spanning about 1.5 acres near Great Seneca Creek overnight Wednesday, fire officials said. Firefighters used floating pumps and water from a nearby creek to extinguish the flames.

At about 9 p.m., firefighters responded to a brush fire in Oakview, Maryland. The fire was on a trail on Oak View Drive and could be seen from the Beltway. 

“If you see smoke from a remote area, call the fire department. It’s likely a brush fire. But again, the conditions are very favorable — low humidity, breezy, windy conditions where it’s rapid spread of the fire,” Pete Piringer, a Montgomery County Fire spokesperson, said Wednesday. 

The red flag warning expired Wednesday evening, but Thursday remains dry with strong Northwest winds, according to Storm Team4.

“Winds continue to diminish today with dry high pressure overhead. An elevated fire danger looks to continue given the very dry air & NW winds gusting 15-25 mph,” the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington said on X.

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This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

This year’s May-like temps in March are quickly pushing the Tidal Basin trees towards peak bloom. The trees reached the first phase of their blooming cycle on the first weekend of March.

The cherry blossoms go through six phases on the way to peak bloom or when 70% of the Yoshino blossoms are flowering. Storm Team4’s predicts the trees will reach peak bloom between March 21 and 26. Last year, peak bloom was March 23. 

The National Park Service is already working to address rising water and flooding. They recently announced that 159 cherry trees on the Tidal Basin and West Potomac Park will be cut down for seawall repairs.  

Here’s more on how climate change will impact peak bloom in the future:

Is the changing climate impacting peak bloom?

Yes, the changing climate is making D.C.’s cherry blossoms reach peak bloom earlier.

When did the cherry blossoms used to reach peak bloom?

From 1931 to 1960, the average peak bloom was around April 6. From 1981 to 2010, the average peak bloom was five days sooner around April 1. 

How does the changing climate impact peak bloom?

Storm Team4 looked at peak bloom dates over the last twenty years to reveal recent trends. According to historical data, peak bloom favors the last week of March. It fell on this date eight of the 20 years. 

Peak bloom has occurred even earlier in the third week of March in four of the last twenty years. 

How often has peak bloom been in April?

In the last 20 years, several peak blooms have occurred in April. The cherry blossoms reached peak bloom in the first week of April four times and the second week of April four times.

With the area warming, when will peak bloom occur in the future? 

Climate Central projects that by 2070 peak bloom could be as early as the first week of March. 

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A wind advisory is in effect until 5 p.m. Monday for 20 to 30 mph winds with gusts up to 55 mph in the D.C. area. Go here for all weather alerts.

The gusts downed trees and may be responsible for the power outages in the area. Dominion Energy reported about 3,400 power outages, mostly in Fairfax County, as of 8:20 a.m.

In Bladensburg, Maryland, a tree fell across the yard of a home and onto its white fence. The tree’s branches blocked part of Tilden Road and took down a power line.

“I’m so thankful for that. That we’re OK, and we’re just getting through it,” the homeowner said.

In Chevy Chase, Maryland, a tree left a gaping hole in the roof of a house’s garage. Fire officials said people were inside the home when the tree fell, but no one was hurt.

On Coral Gables Lane in Vienna, Virginia, a downed tree crushed a car.

A ground delay was in effect at Dulles International Airport in Virginia until 7 p.m. Sunday due to high winds, the FAA said. Travelers arriving at and departing from the airport were told to expect delays.

“Wow! The wind packed a punch at DC’s three airports yesterday— more than **750** delays combined at DCA/IAD/BWI,” News4’s Joseph Olmo wrote on X.

The strong winds caused the National Park Service to close the Washington Monument and the Old Post Office Tower on Sunday. The BloomCam showed gusts causing wave-like ripples in the Tidal Basin around 1 p.m.

“The Washington Monument is closed for the remainder of the day due to high winds. We apologize for any inconvenience,” @NationalMallNPS wrote on X.

Tourists on the National Mall didn’t seem to mind the wind even as they held their hats down.

“I love Washington, D.C.,” a woman visiting the National Mall said.

“Even in this weather?!” News4 asked.

“It’s different for me … because in Miami, it’s very hot,” she replied.

The wind is expected to peak Monday between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and settle down around sunset, Storm Team4 said. A warming trend will bring temperatures on Tuesday to the 60s and up to the 70s on Wednesday.

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Up to a few inches of snow are expected to fall overnight into Saturday morning, Storm Team4 says.

Much of the D.C. area will be under a winter weather advisory. A winter storm warning will be in effect for areas north and west expected to get the largest snowfall. Here’s a full list of weather alerts.

Snow is expected to move out by 8 a.m. Saturday.

Prince George’s County Public Schools canceled athletics and activities and will close facilities on Saturday due to the weather.

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If you want to build a snowman or hit up a sledding hill, get moving early. Sunshine will be back on Saturday afternoon to melt a lot of the snow.

Early Sunday, slippery sidewalks and black ice on roads could slow down travel. But all-day sunshine will melt most of the lingering snow. Monday’s weather looks great for your Presidents Day plans, like visiting Mount Vernon or Alexandria’s George Washington Birthday Parade.

Enjoy this snowfall: With March just two weeks away, there’s more than a 50-50 chance that this will be the last significant snowfall of the season, Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said.

How much snow could fall?

This storm will be more of a nuisance than a blockbuster.

There’s a 99% chance that we see at least an inch of snow, Bell said.

Overall, a few inches of snow are likely. Storm Team4 predicts:

• 1 to 3 inches in D.C., around the Beltway and farther south
• 3 to 6 inches in areas north and west of D.C., including Leesburg, Virginia, and upper Montgomery County, Maryland.
• The highest snow totals will be out toward West Virginia and far western Maryland. The area from Wisp Resort in McHenry, Maryland, to Elkins, West Virginia, could see up to 8 inches of snow.

Weather radar

Winter storm warning

A winter storm warning is in effect until 5 a.m. Saturday for western Loudoun County, Virginia, and Frederick County, Maryland.

Heavy snow is expected, and travel could become very difficult in those areas, the National Weather Service said.

Winter weather advisory

A winter weather advisory is in effect from until 7 a.m. Saturday, The National Weather Service said.

The advisory covers much of the D.C. area:

• Washington D.C.
• Portions of central and northern Maryland, including Calvert County, Charles County, Prince George’s County and central and southeast Montgomery County
• Northern and northwestern Virginia, including Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax County, parts of Prince William County, Manassas, Manassas Park

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Rain transitioned to snow and created slippery road conditions between sunrise and rush hour, but all precipitation was set to finish before noon, Storm Team4 said.

Around 6 a.m., snow was falling along Interstate 70 towards Hagerstown, Maryland, causing wet road conditions.

“It’s coming down hard!” said News4’s Joseph Olmo about the snow falling in northern Maryland’s Washington County at about 6:20 a.m. A viewer in Boonsboro shared photos of inches of snow covering cars and giving trees a winter wonderland-like coating.

At about 6 a.m., roads in Leesburg, Virginia, were wet from a light rainfall. Other parts of Northern Virginia, like Alexandria, began seeing chunky wet snowflakes fall between 7 and 9 a.m. The Virginia Department of Transportation reminded drivers on social media to slow down and limit nonessential travel.

Rain turned into a heavy slushy snow between 8 and 9 a.m. in the District. Many commuters on foot carefully navigated puddles on sidewalks with umbrellas in hand. The precipitation did not immediately stick to D.C. roads but could still cause some roads to become slick or icy with reduced visibility.

Here is a list of school delays and closures in the D.C. area:

Schools in DC:

• No closures or delays at this time.

Schools in Virginia:

• Fairfax County Public Schools will open two hours late.
• Fauquier County Public Schools will open two hours late.
• Frederick County (Virginia) Public Schools will open two hours late.
• Loudoun County Public Schools will be closed Tuesday.

Schools in Maryland:

• Frederick County (Maryland) Public Schools will be closed Tuesday.
• Howard County Public Schools will open two hours late.
• Montgomery County Public Schools will open two hours late.

Employers:

• OPM will be open on Tuesday with an option for unscheduled leave or telework.

Track all closings and delays here.

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Steady snow started falling in parts of the D.C. area overnight, and road conditions were slippery or slick before sunrise, leading many school districts to announce closures on Friday morning. Some school districts have also canceled Saturday activities.

Steady snow that moved in early Friday morning moved in the afternoon but was followed by a line of squalls that continued to dump snow in some areas between 2:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Storm Team4 declared a Weather Alert, and a winter storm warning was issued for parts of Montgomery and Frederick counties in Maryland and Loudoun County in Virginia. The rest of the D.C. area was under a winter weather advisory until 7 p.m. Go here for all weather alerts.

Snowfall totals: How much snow have DC, Maryland and Virginia gotten?

D.C. got 3.7 inches of snow, Manassas got 3.1 inches, Herndon saw 4.7 inches, Bowie had 4 inches, and some areas to the north and west surpassed 5 inches.

Tracking messy road conditions, delays on Metro and at airports

Metro said it’s operating under a “moderate snow plan.” Some bus routes were canceled, and others may take detours. Here’s a full list. Check changes to Metrobus on busETA and Metrorail on MetroPulse.

Even on major roads, travel times were slow because drivers took it easy, as they should, First4 Traffic Reporter Melissa Mollet said. If you need to drive, go slow and give yourself plenty of space to stop on slick roads. Remember to give plows space. Plow trackers let you follow their routes in Maryland and Virginia.

Crashes were reported on southbound I-270 near Montrose Road, the Inner Loop of the Beltway after the BW Parkway and northbound Branch Avenue near Suitland Parkway.

The northern section of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, from the Capital Beltway (I-495) to Spout Run, was closed for hours but reopened by 6 p.m. The National Park Service had announced it would close the parkway during winter weather so crews could adequately treat the road even while it’s undergoing major construction.

Near Georgia Avenue and Heathfield Road, a crash involving several vehicles blocked some lanes, Montgomery County fire department spokesperson Pete Piringer said.

Road crews were out Thursday night to prepare the roads for snow, and salt also remained on roads and sidewalks from the snow we got Monday and Tuesday.

D.C. extended its snow emergency through Sunday. The Snow Team was sent to put salt on emergency routes but said that “residential and side streets are already pretreated due to the amount of brine and salt spread during the snow event earlier this week.”

Reagan National Airport lifted a ground stop due to snow or ice by 8:30 a.m., according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Travelers using DCA and Dulles International Airport are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport.

School closures, delays return Friday

Several school systems announced snow days and delays for Friday. Closures announced Thursday evening included public schools in D.C.; Arlington, Alexandria and Fairfax County, Virginia, and Montgomery, Prince George’s and Frederick County, Maryland. See the full list of school closures here.

Federal agencies in the D.C. area opened two hours late, the Office of Personnel Management said. 

For some kids, Thursday might have been their only school day this week. After the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday Monday, snow days were called Tuesday and Wednesday for some school systems, while others had delays.

National Zoo closes

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute announced that it would close on Friday due to the inclement weather.

It was the second time this week that the zoo closed due to snow. The first closures came on Monday and Tuesday.

Thankfully, the zoo shared photos of animals with “snow-covered snoots” for would-be visitors in need of a wildlife fix.

Volunteers help shovel sidewalks in DC

As snow piles up, it’s important to keep your sidewalks clear. In the District, law states that home and business owners are responsible for clearing their sidewalks after the snowfall ends. But for people who can’t clear their own walkways due to age or medical conditions, the District has teams of volunteers ready to help.

Residents can contact Serve DC to request a team of volunteers to come clear their sidewalks. And if you’re looking to help out, Serve DC is asking for volunteers.

You can get help or volunteer online here or by calling 202-727-7925.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

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School districts in Virginia and Maryland announced school closures and delays ahead of the snowfall, which turned out to be our most significant accumulation in about two years. Storm Team4 issued a Weather Alert.

Here’s a full list of closures and delays, including colleges, charter schools, private schools and government offices.

Federal offices in the DC area are closed.

The Office of Personnel Management closed federal offices in the D.C. area. Maximum telework is in effect. Here’s the OPM’s full operating status notice.

DC Public Schools are closed Tuesday.

Several charter schools are closed as well, including KIPP DC and Friendship Public Charter Schools.

In Virginia, the following districts are closed Tuesday:

• Alexandria City Public Schools
• Arlington Public Schools
• Culpeper County Public Schools
• Fairfax County Public Schools
• Falls Church City Public Schools
• Fauquier County Public Schools
• Frederick County Public Schools
• Fredericksburg City Schools
• Loudoun County Public Schools
• Manassas City Public Schools
• Manassas Park City Schools
• Page County Public Schools
• Prince William County Public Schools
• Orange County Public Schools
• Shenandoah County Public Schools
• Stafford County Public Schools
• Warren County Public Schools

Winchester City Public Schools opened with a two-hour delay.

In Maryland, the following districts are closed Tuesday:

• Anne Arundel County Schools
• Montgomery County Public Schools
• Prince George’s County Public Schools

Public schools in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties opened with a two-hour delay. Frederick County Public Schools already had students scheduled for a day off; staff had a two-hour delay.

Metrobus

Metrobus is operating under its severe snow plan, and only about 40 bus routes are running. Here are more details.

“Customers should allow additional travel time and use caution on sidewalks and at bus stops,” WMATA said. “Bus customers are also encouraged to consider using Metrorail as an alternative, as no weather-related impacts to rail service are anticipated at this time.”

Other closures

The National Zoo announced it would not open on Tuesday due to the hazardous weather conditions. Other Smithsonian museums in D.C. area also closed.

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The closures come after drivers faced slick conditions in parts of the region Monday, following the first burst of snow.

A driver hit a D.C. EMS vehicle head-on along Rock Creek Parkway, and a dump truck overturned on DC-295 in Southeast D.C. In Virginia, up to 50 cars were stopped and multiple crashes were reported at Old Keene Mill Road and Westmore Drive in Springfield during icy conditions. In Maryland, East-West Highway was blocked at Connecticut Avenue in Chevy Chase after a number of collisions. At least one injury was reported.

What to know about Tuesday’s forecast

Storm Team4 says the worst of the impacts on Tuesday would be:

• icy roads in the morning
• reduced visibility, particularly before sunrise when the snow is still falling
• strong winds, with gusts about 20 mph
• dangerous cold, with windchills in the 20s throughout the day
• temperatures will be well below average for the rest of the week

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast.

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Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Monday’s snow has not amounted to a lot, but it was enough to create some slippery road conditions blamed for collisions throughout the DMV, including an emergency medical services vehicle crashing head-on with another vehicle on Rock Creek Parkway.

And more snow is on the way.

The D.C. area is expected to see inches of snow between Monday and Tuesday, with the snowfall affecting travel, especially on Tuesday morning.

It’s shaping up to be the most significant snow in about two years for the region, Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said.

Monday morning’s snow was light, fluffy and easy to wipe away with a broom or brush. But cold temperatures mean snowflakes can stick to untreated roads and sidewalks, and plenty of areas are slick.

“Be prepared for anything,” Alex Liggett of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) said. “This is one of the first systems we’ve seen in a long time.”

Keep an emergency kit ready and ensure you’re car is prepped for snow. You don’t want to run out of wiper fluid in the snow, Liggett said.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser activated the District’s cold weather emergency plan through Thursday. Here are resources for unhoused people or others who need help staying safe. Go here for more information on the District’s plan, shelters and tips.

The National Zoo announced it would close Monday due to icy conditions.

While many schools and businesses are closed Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, delays and cancelations are likely on Tuesday, Bell said. The federal U.S. Office of Personnel Management said normal operating procedures are in effect on Monday.

Travel was already slow and unsteady early Monday as temperatures were cold enough for flakes to stick to the ground, particularly on secondary roads.

Major road closures, many crashes on Monday

The GW Parkway between the Capital Beltway and Spout Run Parkway was shut down because of poor road conditions, impacting travel not far from Reagan National Airport. An extended closure is expected under a snow plan in place because of major construction on the road. Drivers are advised to find alternate routes.

“Drivers should anticipate delays in reopening the northern section of the parkway as crews are required to use smaller equipment than usual to accommodate the lane widths and configurations,” the National Park Service said in a statement.

A dump truck overturned on DC-295 in Southeast D.C., spilling its contents onto the road and blocking all lanes. No injuries were reported, D.C. firefighters said.

A driver hit an EMS vehicle head-on along Rock Creek Parkway near Shoreham Drive, officials said. There were no injuries, but icy conditions are believed to be a factor.

A pickup truck hit a power pole in the Oakton area along Main Street near Presbyterian Way, Fairfax City police said. Dominion Energy crews responded to the scene. Dominion reported about 535 customers without power in the area shortly after the crash.

Possibly up to 50 cars were stopped and multiple crashes were reported at Old Keene Mill Road and Westmore Drive in Springfield, Virginia amid icy conditions.

Along the Capital Beltway in Prince George’s County, crashes involving multiple vehicles blocked lanes, shoulders and medians, but lanes reopened after a few hours, the Metropolitan Area Transportation Operations Coordination (MATOC) Program said.

East West Highway was blocked at Connecticut Avenue in Chevy Chase after a number of collisions. At least one injury was reported, but officials didn’t immediately give further details.

Nine cars were involved in two crashes, but fortunately, no injuries were reported, near Baltimore Avenue and East West Highway in Riverdale Park, Hyattsville firefighters said.

In Takoma Park, icy conditions shut down Carroll Avenue from Merrimac Drive to Lincoln Avenue, police said.

Rockville police said they were “responding to multiple traffic collisions due to poor roadway conditions. Salt crews have been notified.” They asked drivers to slow down.

A winter weather advisory is set to be in place until 7 a.m. Tuesday. Here’s a full list of weather alerts.

D.C.’s snow team was deployed beginning at 6 p.m. Sunday.

“Northern Virginia District crews began pretreating interstates and primary roads, along with bridges, ramps, and overpasses with salt brine Sunday and will be out treating Monday morning as snow develops,” the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) said.

VDOT crews are expected to start plowing once 2 inches of snow have fallen.

Snow totals and what to expect

Another round of snow will move from the south toward the north late Monday evening, becoming widespread overnight. Snowfall is expected to lighten Tuesday morning and taper off at around noon before returning.

The heaviest accumulation is expected to come from 7 p.m. Monday through 9 a.m. Tuesday

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest on timing.

The total accumulation by Tuesday should land at around 2-3 inches, but “some isolated locations could get a little bit more… The second half of the day looks to be quiet,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Jessica Faith says. 

Storm Team4 says the worst of the impacts on Tuesday will be: 

• icy roads in the morning
• reduced visibility, particularly before sunrise when the snow is still falling
• strong winds with gusts at around 20 mph
• dangerous cold, with windchill in the 20s during the whole day

Temperatures will be well below average in the week ahead, Faith says.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

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Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

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You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

The winter storm was moving out of the region on Saturday night, but before it did, it left light snow and some sleet before it changed into all rain for much of the area. Highs were in mid- to upper 30s.

“We could see rain and snow coming down at a pretty good rate at times,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Amelia Draper said.

Areas to the north and west of the D.C. metro area saw the largest effects of the storm and the most frozen precipitation. Loudoun County, Virginia, public schools canceled on-campus activities and announced administrative officers would be closed Saturday.

Fairfax County and Fauquier County schools in Virginia followed suit, also closing on-campus activities for Saturday. In Maryland, Frederick Community College canceled classes and closed its campus for the day.

Weather radar

Download the NBC Washington app on Apple and Android to use the weather radar on your mobile device.

Timing and snow totals

By 9 a.m. Saturday, we saw a wintry mix across the area, dropping mainly wet snow around D.C. and areas to the north.

By midday, the rain and snow line was in play right along the I-95 corridor. The D.C. area saw a shift to mostly rain in the afternoon.

But residents further west, in places like Purcelville and Clear Brooke, Virginia; Walkersville and Corriganville, Maryland; and Petersburg, West Virginia, snow began to accumulate by lunchtime.

Rain exited the area at nighttime, but there was a chance of a lingering shower on Sunday.

We’re talking about a lot of moisture: Nearly an inch of precipitation was predicted to fall in D.C. and its immediate suburbs. Unfortunately for snow lovers, most of this precipitation saw rain.

If this storm system had snow, there would be nearly a foot of snow across the area. But surface temperatures were too warm, among other factors.

Winter weather advisory issued for parts of Maryland and Virginia

A winter weather advisory was in effect from Saturday morning through the evening in areas all around D.C., including:

• Spotsylvania County, VA
• Orange County, VA
• Greene County, VA
• Culpeper County, VA
• Madison County, VA
• Stafford County, VA
• Central and Southeast Prince William County/Manassas/Manassas Park, VA
• Fairfax County, VA
• Rappahannock County, VA
• Northern Fauquier County, VA
• Northwest Prince William County, VA
• Eastern Loudoun County, VA
• Western Loudoun County, VA
• Central and Southeast Montgomery County, MD
• Central and Southeast Howard County, MD

Roads could be slippery in these areas, the National Weather Service warned.

A winter storm watch was issued for the I-81 corridor, including Winchester and Luray.

In Frederick, Maryland, state police activated the county’s Snow Emergency Plan on Saturday afternoon, designating a series of highways as snow emergency routes and requiring drivers to use snow tires.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Many residents of the D.C. area could see snowflakes this weekend — but cold rain in the forecast is washing out hopes for a winter wonderland near the Beltway.

Storm Team4 is tracking a winter storm expected throughout Saturday. Some snow is expected Saturday before it changes into all rain for much of the region. Highs will be in the mid- to upper 30s.

“We could see rain and snow coming down at a pretty good rate at times,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Amelia Draper said.

Areas to the north and west of the D.C. metro area will see the largest effects of the storm. Loudoun County, Virginia, public schools canceled on-campus activities and announced administrative officers would be closed Saturday.

Storm Team4 predicts:

• Little to no accumulation in the D.C. metro area
• 1-3 inches of snow north and west of D.C.
• 3 to 6 inches of snow and some ice in the I-81 corridor.

Here’s where snow and rain are expected

Red zone: Along the I-81 corridor and up to Frederick County, Maryland is where the storm will have the biggest impacts. Snow is expected to arrive in the morning and continue into the afternoon. Even in this zone, the storm will likely end with rain.

But there’s also the chance for some ice in these areas north and west of D.C., including the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Hagerstown area.

Yellow Zone: Between Washington; most of Fairfax, Montgomery and Prince William counties and down through Stafford and Fauquier counties, expect a wintry mix.

“We’re looking at a mix of rain and snow changing over to all rain by the midday and afternoon hours” on Saturday, Draper said.

Green zone: In southern Maryland, central and southern Prince George’s County and up through Anne Arundel County, you’re dealing with mainly rain.

“Could you see a few snowflakes? Absolutely,” Draper said. “But this is just going to be, for the most part, a rainy chilly day for those of you east of I-95.”

Weather radar

Download the NBC Washington app on Apple and Android to use the weather radar on your mobile device.

Timing and snow totals

By 9 a.m. Saturday, we’ll likely have a wintry mix across the area, dropping mainly wet snow around D.C. and areas to the north.

About midday, the rain and snow line is set to be in play right along the I-95 corridor. But the D.C. area can expect a shift to mostly rain in the afternoon.

Rain will exit as we head into nighttime, but there could be a lingering shower or some lingering snow showers out there on Sunday.

We’re talking about a lot of moisture: Nearly an inch of precipitation could fall.

Unfortunately for snow lovers, most of this precipitation will be rain.

If this storm system was all snow, we’d be talking about nearly a foot of snow across the area. But surface temperatures will be too warm, among other factors.

Winter weather advisory issued for parts of Maryland and Virginia

A winter weather advisory will be in effect from Saturday morning through the evening in areas north and west of D.C., including:

• Culpeper County, Virginia
• Fairfax County, Virginia
• Fauquier County, Virginia
• Loudoun County, Virginia
• Prince William County, Virginia
• Spotsylvania County, Virginia
• Stafford County, Virginia
• Howard County, Maryland
• Montgomery County, Maryland

Roads could be slippery in these areas, the National Weather Service warned.

A winter storm watch was issued for the I-81 corridor, including Winchester and Luray.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Many residents of the D.C. area could see snowflakes this weekend — but the closer we get to Saturday, the less likely it seems that we’ll get much.

Storm Team4 is tracking a winter storm expected throughout Saturday and into early Sunday. A mix of rain, snow and possibly ice is expected during the first half of Saturday, before it changes into all rain for much of the region. Areas to the north and west of the D.C. metro area will see the largest effects of the storm.

The rain-snow line is often a tricky part of winter storm forecasting, and it’s set to be in play in the evolving forecast for this winter storm.

“The big question is: Where is that rain-snow line going to set up?” Storm Team4 Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer said.

It’s still too early to talk about possible snow accumulation totals.

Here’s where snow and rain are expected

Storm Team4 Meteorologist Amelia Draper laid out where more snow is expected.

Red Zone: Areas of Maryland and Virginia farther away from the metro area will see the biggest impacts. “This is looking like mainly a snow event for you,” Draper said. The storm may end there as a wintry mix or rain.

These locations include:

• northern Fauquier County, Virginia
• Frederick County, Maryland
• western Loudoun County, Virginia
• upper Montgomery County, Maryland
• Page County, Virginia
• Rappahannock County, Virginia
• Warren County, Virginia

Yellow Zone: The District and parts of Maryland and Virginia bordering the Capital Beltway will get a wintry mix, with snow arriving Saturday morning and then changing over to all rain. Not much snow accumulation is expected.

These areas include:

• D.C.
• Fairfax County, Virginia
• Manassas, Virginia
• lower Montgomery County, Maryland
• northern Prince George’s County, Maryland
• Prince William County, Virginia

Green Zone: Primarily rain, and possibly some snow flurries, are expected in parts of Maryland. These areas include:

• Calvert County
• Charles County
• St. Mary’s County
• southern Prince George’s County

The forecast models differ on where the rain-snow line may fall, but the general consensus is that more snow would fall north and west of D.C.

Rain is more likely farther to the south and east.

Here’s what we know about the storm timing

One computer model says we’ll still be dry at 6 a.m. Saturday and that we’ll see snow in the D.C. metro area toward midday. Rain will move in that afternoon, and the storm system will start to wind down overnight Saturday.

So, will be shoveling snow or skipping tests at school on Monday? As of right now, it doesn’t look likely.

Here’s the forecast for the rest of the workweek

Before the weekend, expect mostly calm and cool weather. High temperatures will be in the 40s, with breezy winds on Thursday. Lows will be in the mid 30s on Thursday and mid 20s on Friday.

Storm Team4 winter weather outlook

If you want snow, and lots of it, Storm Team4’s winter weather outlook said this could be your year.

Storm Team 4 predicted:

• 22″-30″ of snow this winter for the I-95 corridor and the D.C. metro area
• 15″-22″ in our southern zones
• 30″-40″ in the western suburbs

Go here to see the full winter weather outlook.

Weather radar:

Download the NBC Washington app on Apple and Android to use the weather radar on your mobile device.

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Storm Team4's winter weather outlook

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

A driver in Montgomery County, Maryland, was rescued from a tree early Monday after getting swept away in high water, and more than 5,500 power outages were reported, officials said.

The driver was on Brighton Dam Road in the Brookeville area about 4:30 a.m. when their car got caught in high water. The driver left the vehicle and was swept downstream, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue said.

That person was holding onto a tree when rescuers arrived shortly after. Boats were sent to help, Montgomery County officials said. Two vehicles were seen in the water, officials said. No serious injuries were reported.

Remember: If you see water on a road, turn around, don’t drown.

Most of the D.C. area picked up 2 to 2.5 inches of rain, making this one of the biggest December rainfalls on record, Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said.

Dulles International Airport clocked 2.27 inches of rain, its third-greatest rainfall total for a 24-hour period in December. Washington Reagan National Airport recorded 2.41 inches, and BWI-Marshall got 2.69 inches.

In Maryland, flooding closed lanes on Route 28 near Avery Road in Rockville and on River Road in Bethesda.

In the District, a huge tree was uprooted by strong winds overnight at Massachusetts Avenue and Upton Road NW. Crews were working to clear the tree from the roadway about 5:30 a.m. Another downed tree and wires also blocked lanes along outbound Canal Road NW. Rock Creek Parkway, Virginia Avenue NW and parts of Beach Drive were closed Monday morning because of flooding.

Storm Team4 declared Weather Alerts for Sunday and Monday. A flood watch was in effect Sunday evening for parts of D.C, Maryland and Virginia, and a flood warning continued through 7 a.m. Monday. A wind advisory is in effect Monday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in parts of D.C, Maryland and Virginia. Go here for all weather alerts.

Expect flooding, high winds Monday

Strong winds will be the biggest weather worry Monday as temperatures slowly drop. The heavy rain has come to an end, but the wind will turn to the northwest and continue gusting to near 40 mph all afternoon.

The weather alert continues Monday due to the high winds. Here’s the Storm Team4 forecast.

“If you are going to bring your umbrella, just know, make sure that it is reinforced, because the wind is really going to be quite an issue,” Bell said.

Bell told drivers to take extra time during their morning commutes due to high or standing water in flood-prone areas. Flood waters were expected to recede in the afternoon.

Power outages

About 2,200 Pepco customers in Chillum, Maryland, and 3,000 Dominion Energy customers in Fairfax, Virginia, were without power as of 5 a.m. You can check Pepco and Dominion Energy power outages online. BGE has not reported outages in the D.C. area.

Sunday storm and rainfall

Sunday began with a special weather statement, warning drivers to be careful on the road for dense fog that lasted into the late morning. Storm Team4 Meteorologist Clay Anderson said it was like pea soup.

Rain began after the fog cleared and gradually increased over the day. It picked up after sunset, and the flood watch went into effect at 6 p.m., Anderson said. Prime time for the heaviest rain and strong winds began Sunday at 4 p.m. and continued overnight before ending early Monday.

Despite it being mid-December, temperatures were on the warm side at about 50° overnight.

Most of the area picked up 2 to 2.5 inches of rain from the storm, Bell said. Some models hinted rainfall could total 3 inches – but that would have been highly unusual for December, Bell said.

Washington’s all-time record for daily rainfall in December is 3.1 inches.

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10-day forecast and Christmas travel outlook

Cold, dry weather will follow the storm and last through most of next week.

The early outlook for Christmas travel is good, with dry weather in the days leading up to the holiday. Christmas Eve is expected to have some sunshine and temps between 34 and 50 degrees.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

Everything’s coming up sunshine for Friday and Saturday. Expect cold mornings, then high temperatures in the mid-50s. It’ll be great weather for seeing holiday lights or hitting up festive pop-up bars, even as a few clouds roll in on Saturday.

Save your Hallmark movie binge for Sunday, though! And make sure that storm drains, gutters and holiday decorations are ready for the heavy rain and strong winds.

As early as sunrise on Sunday, you may hear some raindrops. A couple of showers and sprinkles aren’t out of the question throughout the morning.

“We are in store for another real soaking of rain,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said.

Sunday rainfall totals and timing

The heaviest rain will be most likely between 4 p.m. Sunday and 4 a.m. Monday.

Most of our forecast models agree that 2 inches of rain is likely. Some models are hinting rainfall could total 3 inches – but that would be highly unusual for December, Bell said.

Washington’s all-time record for daily rainfall in December is 3.1 inches.

“I don’t know if we can get all the way to the full on record, but we’ll be close. It’ll be, in all likelihood, one of the [top] five or six rainiest December days on record,” Bell said.

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Whether or not any records get challenged, it will be very wet. If you had any high water issues with last Sunday’s storm, be prepared for more issues with this one.

There may be a small chance for a snowflake at the end, but Storm Team4 doesn’t expect enough to cause any significant delays. It’s not forecast to be like last Monday morning.

But much like last week, the storm is set to race out of the region by Monday afternoon.

10-day forecast and Christmas travel outlook

The remainder of the week is shaping up to be cold with highs in the 40s.

The early outlook for Christmas travel is good, with dry weather in the days leading up to the holiday. Christmas Eve is expected to have some sunshine and temps between 34 and 50 degrees.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

A white coating on grassy areas and some enormous falling snowflakes were seen by early risers.⁠ But don’t expect a long-lasting winter wonderland: Snow was finished before most people took their morning coffee break.

Snow totals ranged from under a half-inch to 1.5 inches in the areas farther outside the Beltway, including Prince William County and upper Montgomery County, according to the National Weather Service.

After a nearly snow-free winter last year – D.C. got a measly 0.4″ all season – drivers had to again wipe snow and sometimes ice off their cars. Some slushiness was seen on roads early Monday.

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Montgomery County Fire and Rescue spokesman Pete Piringer cautioned drivers to use caution on untreated roads or elevated surfaces including bridges and overpasses, which could be slick.

Public schools in Frederick, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland, plus Spotsylvania and Stafford Counties in Virginia were among those who started late because of the snowy weather. Here’s a full list of school delays.

“It looks scarier than it is going to be,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said. “On the whole, roads are just wet.”

Temperatures were near-freezing early Monday and forecasted highs are in the mid-40s. By Monday afternoon, clouds will be long gone and blustery wind will take over. Here’s the Storm Team4 forecast.

Little, if any, evidence of snow will be visible by Monday evening, Bell said.

But about 4 a.m., snowflakes were coming down hard in parts of the region.

Photos show a dusting of white in Rockville and thick flakes falling in Waldorf.

By 6 a.m., the snow turned into a wet wintry mix in Upper Marlboro. Snow remained on grassy areas and parked cars, but melted on Maryland Route 301, leaving wet driving conditions.

On Interstate 270 in the Rockville area, slush along the shoulders of the highway was gone and traffic was running as normal, even with wet roads.

Parts of Montgomery County had some of the highest snow totals in the region: Damascus reported 2.5 inches in one reading and Gaithersburg measured about 1.5 inches, according to the National Weather Service.

In Prince William County, Manassas and Dale City reported about an inch of snow. In Fairfax County, Mount Vernon, Vienna and Chantilly each had reports of more than an inch of snowfall.

The snow comes after a rainy Sunday with 1 to 1.5 inches of rain in the D.C. area.

D.C.’s burst of snow came on the early side this year. The average first snowfall occurs on Dec. 20, Storm Team4 Meteorologist Ryan Miller said.

Does that signal a snowy season to come? Maybe.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently predicting above-average temperatures for our region this winter, and Storm Team4 agrees with this. They are also predicting above-average precipitation in our region — and we agree with this as well.

El Niño has set up in the equatorial Pacific, and that could lead to more snow, including the potential for some big snowstorms. El Niño has a profound influence on the weather around the globe. In our area, it normally means more snow.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

A flood watch is in effect for excessive rainfall in parts of D.C., Maryland and Virginia until 1 a.m. on Monday. Go here for all weather alerts.

“It’s really the chance of flooding this afternoon that has our concern,” Storm Team4 Meteorologist Ryan Miller said.

Rain began falling early Sunday. Heavy rain began around noon and will continue through midnight. Gusty winds up to 35 mph are possible. 

The greatest potential for flooding is in areas along and east of Interstate 95, Miller said. Close to two inches of rain could fall in the Metro area. 

Temperatures are expected to climb to the lower 60s during the day. A cold front will move into the western viewer area by 7 p.m. This will turn some of the rain into snow overnight and into Monday morning. 

“A very mild day ahead of the cold front that’s ultimately going to give us the colder air,” Miller said. 

Some light snow accumulation may be visible on grassy surfaces in D.C. While the northwestern suburbs could see a bit of snow into the early morning hours, according to Miller. 

There will be precipitation early Monday, but it will quiet down quickly. Expect wet roads during the morning commute.

Stay with News4 for updates for this forecast and check out our weather page for radar and more weather info.

Rain will start in the western counties, including Frederick, Loudoun, Prince William and Fauquier, about 6 p.m. before moving into the D.C. area.

As temperatures fall overnight, there will be a slight chance for some wet snowflakes to mix in with the rain.

Storm Team4 Meteorologist Amelia Draper emphasized there will be no accumulations — if we see snow at all.

“There is that chance it just doesn’t materialize,” Draper said. “It is not going to be a big deal here in the D.C. metro area.”

Any snow we get will immediately melt when it hits the ground, she said.

There’s a slight possibility areas near Interstate-81 like Winchester, Luray and other areas to the west could get a coating.

The highest elevations in far western Maryland and West Virginia are under a winter weather advisory through tomorrow morning for 3 to 6 inches, Draper said.

Aside from the small chance for rain and snow in the morning, Wednesday will be chilly with a high of 44 degrees.

Stay with News4 for updates for this forecast and check out our weather page for radar and more weather info.

But get those waterproof boots and snow shovels ready — because if you want snow, and lots of it, Storm Team4 says this could be your year.

Storm Team 4 is predicting:

• 22″-30″ of snow this winter for the I-95 corridor and the D.C. metro area
• 15″-22″ in our southern zones
• 30″-40″ in the western suburbs

If conditions come together, we could see one or two big snowstorms that really make their mark on the winter of 2023-2024.

We should see an active storm track this winter, with numerous storms that will produce rain at times and snow at other times. Temperatures will be above average for a good chunk of this winter, but there will be cold bouts as well. All of this will add up to the potential for some big East Coast storms.

We expect December to be about average or a little bit above. January will have near to slightly below average temperatures, while February could be our coldest month — and our stormiest.

Recent winters have seen a shortage of snowflakes

Our last blizzard was all the way back in 2016. As one of the biggest snowstorms in D.C. history, it shut down the city for days.

But since then, six out of our past seven winters have seen below-average snowfall. The winter of 2018-2019 was the only time we surpassed the average of 13.7″.

Over these past seven years, we’ve averaged just 6.8″ of snow per year — and in two of those years, we didn’t even get a single inch. The winter of 2019-2020 saw just 0.6″, and last winter was one of the least snowy of all time, with a measly 0.4″. Last winter was also one of the warmest of all time.

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A snowy outlook for winter of 2023-2024

It has been either feast or famine when it comes to snow over the last few years, but lately it’s been more famine.

Now, as we look toward the winter of 2023-2024, we could be feasting quite a bit more.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently predicting above-average temperatures for our region this winter, and we agree with this. They are also predicting above-average precipitation in our region — and we agree with this as well.

El Niño has set up in the equatorial Pacific, and that could lead to more snow, including the potential for some big snowstorms. El Niño has a profound influence on the weather around the globe. In our area, it normally means more snow, but let’s dive into the details.

What to know about El Niño’s effect on winters in the DC area

This developing El Niño is looking to be a strong one. Looking at previous years with similar conditions, the D.C. area has hit the jackpot in regards to snowfall almost every time.

We reviewed four similar El Niño winters: 1957-1958, 1965-1966, 1972-1973 and 1982-1983. The average snowfall over those four winters was 24″ — but we said we hit the jackpot only almost every time. The winter of 1972-1973 was actually our least snowy winter on record, with just 0.1″. While El Niño might have been similar that year, other factors are not, and Storm Team4 is taking that year out of the equation.

So over those other El Niño winters (1957-1958, 1965-1966 and 1982-1983), we got an average of 32.1″ per winter. That’s a big number — and Storm Team4 expects a big winter.

Other factors involved in predicting a snowy winter

There are numerous other factors at play in addition to El Niño. For example, warm water in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico should help produce more moisture during storms in the D.C. area. The warm water of the Pacific should also help to bring more moisture in from the west.

Another factor to consider is Siberian snow cover in October and early November. Normally, cold and snowy weather there during this time period could mean a colder-than-average winter for us and one with more snow. This year, snowfall in that area of the world has been a little late, but it’s starting now to really increase.

Storm Team4 also reviews something called the Quasi-Biennial Oscillation (QBO). This takes a look at winds in the stratosphere. Currently, the QBO is negative. When this happens, we look for more cold weather outbreaks in the eastern U.S., and that could lead to more snow.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

Air quality Aug 28

How bad is the air quality in the DC area? Enter your ZIP code on this map

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You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

The heat wave is expected to bring record-breaking temperatures and a heat index about 100 degrees, according to Storm Team4. A hot weather emergency plan is activated in D.C. through Thursday.

Pools in the District are typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Due to the excessive heat, the Oxon Run pool and the pool at Hearst Recreation Center will remain open until Sept. 21.

DC pools open during September

Oxon Run Pool is located at 501 Mississippi Avenue SE, about a mile from the Congress Heights Metro station. It is closed on Mondays, but open Tuesday to Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The pool at the Hearst Recreation Center is located at 3701 37th Street NW, about 0.8 miles from the Clevland Park Metro station. It is open Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

DC spray parks open during September

Eighteen of the District’s spray parks are staying open until Sept. 21. The kid-friendly fountains can help residents beat the heat from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. See the locations below:

Ward 1

• 14th & Park Road (Columbia Heights Civic Plaza): 14th Street & Park Road, NW | 20011
• Harrison Recreation Center: 1330 V Street, NW | 20009
• Park at LeDroit: 319 Oakdale Place, NW | 20001

Ward 2

• Kennedy Recreation Center: 1401 7th Street, NW | 20005

Ward 3

• Chevy Chase Recreation Center: 5500 41st Street, NW | 20015
• Guy Mason Recreation Center: 3600 Calvert Street, NW | 20007
• Macomb Recreation Center: 3409 Macomb Street, NW | 20016

Ward 4

• Takoma Community Center: 300 Van Buren Street, NW | 20012
• Lafayette-Pointer Recreation Center: 5900 33rd Street, NW | 20015
• Petworth Recreation Center: 801 Taylor Street, NW | 20011

Ward 5

• Edgewood Recreation Center: 3rd & Evarts Street, NE | 20002
• Turkey Thicket Recreation Center: 1100 Michigan Avenue, NE | 20017

Ward 6

• Eastern Market Metro Park: 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE | 20003
• Watkins Spray Park: 420 12th Street, SE | 20003

Ward 7

• Hillcrest Recreation Center: 3100 Denver Street, SE | 20020
• Fort Davis Spray Park: 1400 41st Street, SE | 20020
• Marvin Gaye Park at Division Avenue: Division & Foote Streets, NE | 20019
• Marvin Gaye Recreation Center: 6201 Banks Place, NE | 20019

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Storm Team4 8 mins ago

Storm Team4 Forecast: Dry weather presses on as temps rise to low 80s

District leaders are urging everyone to be weather alert during the extreme heat. Heat is dangerous for vulnerable populations and residents are reminded to check on elderly neighbors, children and pets.

If exercising outdoors, do so early in the morning or in the evening. Be sure to hydrate and stay in the shade when outside.

Cooling centers are available for people without air conditioning. Click here to find a cooling center.

An inch or two of rain prompted a flash flood warning for southeastern Fairfax County, but that has been canceled.

The chance of rain remains into late evening.

Severe storms hit the D.C. area on Monday, drowning dogs at a flooded doggy day care in Northeast D.C. and leaving drivers stranded in their cars in high water in Alexandria and Springfield, Virginia.

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News4 sends breaking news stories by email. Go here to sign up to get breaking news alerts in your inbox.

Stay with Storm Team4 and NBC Washington for updates on the forecast.

Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

Air quality Aug 28

How bad is the air quality in the DC area? Enter your ZIP code on this map

Extreme Weather Aug 27

Wild week of US weather includes heat wave, tropical storm, landslide, flash flood and snow

You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

Air quality Aug 28

How bad is the air quality in the DC area? Enter your ZIP code on this map

Extreme Weather Aug 27

Wild week of US weather includes heat wave, tropical storm, landslide, flash flood and snow

You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

Air quality Aug 28

How bad is the air quality in the DC area? Enter your ZIP code on this map

Extreme Weather Aug 27

Wild week of US weather includes heat wave, tropical storm, landslide, flash flood and snow

You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

Air quality Aug 28

How bad is the air quality in the DC area? Enter your ZIP code on this map

Extreme Weather Aug 27

Wild week of US weather includes heat wave, tropical storm, landslide, flash flood and snow

You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Heavy rain, powerful wind and lightning swept through the D.C. area Monday evening, leaving damage and power outages in their wake. Fallen trees blocked roads, and golf ball-sized hail clattered to the ground in both Maryland and Virginia.

“It’s like the Fourth of July with lightning strikes popping off in every direction,” NBC4 photographer Nick Leimbach said near Leesburg about 5:30 p.m.

Dominion Virginia reported more than 50,000 customers without power at one point Monday evening, although the number has been dropping since then.

Workers rushed home early Monday afternoon after a tornado watch was issued for the District and parts of Maryland and Virginia, as skies began to darken and winds picked up. The tornado watch ended at 9 p.m., and tornado warnings for several counties, including Fauquier, Loudoun and Spotsylvania, also have expired.

Several severe thunderstorm warnings also were issued for spots around the region. See all severe weather alerts here.

The storms were fast-moving, Storm Team4 Meteorologist Amelia Draper said. Although the rain was heavy, it moved through so quickly that flooding was not a huge concern, she said.

News4’s Darcy Spencer reported some standing water on some roads in Prince George’s County but said she hadn’t encountered any major flooding.

However, multiple trees and power lines came down around the region.

Multiple roads were closed in Brandywine, Maryland, due to fallen trees. One tree fell at the intersection of Forum Drive and Government Center Parkway in Fairfax County, and another was down in the street in the 24000 block of River Road in Montgomery County.

‘An Absolute Deluge Here’

At Interstate 66 and Route 15 in Haymarket, Northern Virginia Bureau Chief Julie Carey saw an intense downpour with thunder, lightning and high winds. She was set up at a Sheetz gas station full of people taking cover.

“The flags, the trees — they are whipping,” Carey said. “Just an absolute deluge here. We’ve seen a very dark front line come through. It’s almost like night before the sky opened up and it started to fall, pour.”

“It’s a little striking how many people are out in this,” Carey said about 5:30 p.m. “Unfortunately, a lot of people still on the road.”

The National Weather Service issued tornado watches up and down the East Coast, from Alabama to New York, officials said Monday afternoon.

Flights were routed around the storms as much as possible, the FAA said.

Federal Offices Closed Early; Concert at Nats Park Delayed for Hours

Ahead of the storms, forecasters had warned of a higher Severe Weather Outlook than we’d had in 10 years.

“You want to prepare for derecho-like damage,” Draper said, referring to the 2012 storm that brought 70 to 90 mph winds, ripped off roofs, destroyed cars, knocked out power, tore down thousands of trees and sent temperatures soaring to 100 degrees.

Government offices, as well as some colleges and schools, closed early as a precaution:

• The federal government closed all its offices in the D.C. area, including the Pentagon, telling employees to leave by 3 p.m.
• Loudoun County Public Schools closed all schools and facilities at 3:30 p.m. and canceled after-school activities.
• The University of Maryland College Park campus and George Mason University in Fairfax also closed early.
• So did all D.C. Public Library branches.

Virginia’s transportation department warned drivers to be especially careful on roads, including by obeying road closure signs, avoiding debris and never driving into high water.

At Nationals Park, gates opened at 4:30 p.m. for Monday night’s Pink concert, but guests were told to stay in the concourse until the storms passed. Photos showed scores of fans crowded together under cover and a sea of empty seats in the ballpark.

Concert goers waited more than three hours before skies cleared enough for them to be safely seated.

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It’s been a little more than a week since punishing storms on July 29 knocked out power for many residents and ripped huge trees from the ground.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

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Secure lawn furniture or other items that might blow around in wind.

In case the power goes out, charge your devices ahead of time and consider filling a cooler with ice. Keep important items such as flashlights, water bottles and medication in easy-to-find spots.

Decide how you’ll receive emergency alerts, such as a tornado warning, and plan where you’ll go for safety.

If you hear thunder: Go inside. Ready.gov has more tips to help you stay safe from thunderstorms and lightning.

In a tornado: The safest places are a basement or storm cellar (or, of course, a safe room, if you have one). If you don’t have a basement, find a small, interior room on the lowest level, according to Ready.gov. Here’s more advice on tornado preparations.

Ready.gov also recommends that you save your phone calls for emergencies, as phone systems are often down or busy after severe storms or other disasters. Communicate with family and friends via text or social media instead.

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“We extend our sincere appreciation to the public for their patience and understanding during this closure period,” George Washington Memorial Parkway superintendent Charles Cuvelier said in a release.

Crews have been working to clear the fallen trees and hazardous limbs from on and near the roadway and the trails alongside the parkway.

“If there are not downed trees in those areas, blocking paths, there could be broken limbs that pose a risk to not only travelers but some of our people who enjoy our parks as well,” said Christopher Hershey of the National Park Service.

The National Park Service said it had to call in extra crews to help with the cleanup.

“Yesterday, crews removed 250-325 hazardous trees, resulting in 100 dump-truck and 15 chipper-truck loads, and more than 500 tons of wood and debris,” George Washington Memorial Parkway Superintendent Charles Cuvelier said in a statement Tuesday afternoon. 

Drivers are encouraged by NPS to use caution when driving in the three lanes of the north parkway rehabilitation project.

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Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

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Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

The northbound parkway remains closed from Spout Run Parkway to Interstate 495 except for the northbound lanes from Route 123 to I-495. The southbound lanes of the Spout Run Parkway are also closed.

Crews are working to clear fallen trees and hazardous, broken limbs from on and near the roadway. The trails alongside the parkway also needs to be cleaned up.

“If there are not downed trees in those areas, blocking paths, there could be broken limbs that pose a risk to not only travelers but some of our people who enjoy our parks as well,” said Christopher Hershey of the National Park Service.

The National Park Service said it had to call in extra crews to help with the cleanup.

Cars were diverted left off the parkway with orange cones at Spout Run Parkway during Monday morning’s commute.

NPS reported that numerous trees fell across the Clara Barton Parkway in Maryland.

Fallen trees remained strewn across roads in Northwest D.C. on Monday morning.

On Arizona Avenue off of Loughboro Road NW, a pole with power lines and a transformer was snapped in half. Loughboro Road was filled with downed power lines and tree branch debris.

A large tree with roots taller than a person laid across Massachusetts Avenue NW near Sheridan Circle.

D.C.’s Mayor Muriel Bowser said 311 has received more than 500 calls since Saturday asking for help with tree removal.

Drivers are advised to expect delays.

This is a developing story. Stay with News4 for more updates.

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Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

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How bad is the air quality in the DC area? Enter your ZIP code on this map

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You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

The cold front that moved in Saturday to offer relief from three days of extreme heat and humidity interacted with that heat and humidity to create powerful storms that left more than 200,000 customers without power in D.C., Maryland and Virginia at one point.

As of about 8 a.m. Sunday, Pepco was reporting more than 17,000 customers were still without power. Dominion was reporting almost 30,000 customers still in the dark. BGE reported more than 10,000, SMECO reported more than 11,000, and MonPower reported about 200.

A spokesperson for Dominion Energy says the goal is to have power restored to the majority of customers in Northern Virginia by 11 p.m. on Sunday, but did admit that there may be some customers who might have to wait until Monday due to the sheer number of calls they’ve had to respond.

Downed trees cause damage across the region

There were numerous reports of fallen trees and branches. Several roads remained blocked by trees as of Sunday morning.

A Virginia man was killed when a tree crashed down on his home. The victim was 44-year-old Kenneth Allan Lee Jr. His wife says said he was showering in their Prince William County home when the tree fell at about 5:30 p.m on Saturday.

A tree fell on an apartment building in the 1200 block of Queen Street NE in D.C. Firefighters are checking for structural damage and evacuating residents. No injuries were reported.

Monday commuters may be affected by the damage. Many trees fell across the George Washington Memorial Parkway, the National Park Service said. It is closed from Spout Run Parkway to the Beltway as crews remove trees and will remain closed until an assessment is complete.

NPS also reported that numerous trees fell across the Clara Barton Parkway in Maryland.

In the 3200 block of Wisconsin Avenue NW, the roof of a 31-unit apartment building was torn off during the storms. Residents were evacuated, and no one was injured.

After the storms whipped through, the National Zoo announced it will be closed Sunday for clean up.

A video captured by Storm Team4’s Ryan Miller shows an electrical fire caused by downed tree limbs and power lines on Foxhall Road and Garfield Street NW. In the video, the lines can be heard buzzing as the fire burns above the street.

Storm damage recovery

The D.C. area began storm cleanup on Sunday with clear weather. Temperatures were cooler with highs only reaching the mid-80s and a steady drop in humidity during the afternoon.

People carefully moved around a tree that fell across a lane in the 3800 block of Wisconsin Avenue NW. Chainsaws whirred while people cleared fallen branches.

Nearby Annunciation Catholic Church continued services without electricity. One of its members said it was divine intervention that protected the church from falling tree limbs.

“That huge limb off of the tree could have landed on that beautiful church. And, I come here early Sunday mornings, I go ahead and get the church ready for mass, we have no electricity, we couldn’t make coffee, so we had to get coffee from another firm,” church member Joe Fiorillo said. “And people showed up, about the same amount of people that normally come to eight o’clock mass were here today.”

The D.C. Office of Unified Communications tweeted they had received more than 125 reports of downed trees as of 10:45 p.m. on Saturday.

DC Fire and EMS tweeted that they responded to 317 storm-related calls between 5 and 8:45 p.m. on Saturday.

Extreme storms on the East Coast followed a national heatwave that has swept from west to east in July. On Thursday, 60% of the U.S., or 200 million people, were placed under a heat advisory or flood warning or watch, according to the National Weather Service. 

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

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The heat index, or the “feels-like” temperature, is what it feels like to the body when humidity is combined with the heat.

The human body likes to stay at 98.6 degrees. Sometimes we get hotter internally, such as when we’re working out, spending time in the hot sun or have a fever. When the body gets too hot, it sweats. The sweat evaporates from us and takes away the extra heat with it. Evaporation is a cooling process. But on a humid day, sweat is not able to evaporate from the body efficiently, and the body can’t cool down as easily.

That is why meteorologists show the heat index along with the air temperature. It helps to tell the whole story.

The heat index is calculated by combining the air temperature with the relative humidity. You may not find the heat index on the thermometer, but it’s an important factor during the summer months.

Be sure to practice heat safety and listen to your local meteorologists to understand the risks and impacts of the summer heat.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

1. No clouds today
2. Temperatures back near average
3. Tropical Storm Francine strengthening
4. No tropical rains for us

The long stretch of quiet weather in the tropics has come to an end.

“Francine” is now a tropical storm and will soon become a hurricane. There is good agreement among the forecast models that Francine will make landfall along the west central coast of Louisiana around sunset Wednesday – most likely as a Category 2 storm.

Even the most optimistic outlook for rain keeps us dry through at least the next five to six days before any rain can materialize. So the drought continues.

In the meantime, September sunshine will rule. Daytime highs will reach the low-80s today and the mid-80s on Wednesday and Thursday.

We should get some high clouds from Francine by Friday and the weekend. That, plus a change in wind direction to the Southeast, should keep highs in the low 80s for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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Tropical Storm Francine’s impacts in the South

This forecast is not good news for New Orleans. The strongest storm surge will be pushed up the mouth of the Mississippi River, with the heaviest rain coming just upriver from New Orleans.

Significant inland flooding will occur from Lake Charles to Baton Rouge. By Thursday’s sunset, the core of Francine will travel up the Mississippi and be near Memphis, Tennessee.

There is less certainty about where all that tropical moisture will go from there but, as of now, it looks as though our dominating ridge of high pressure will hold firm and keep from getting any of the rainfall we so desperately need.

Further out into the future, there are hints of a tropical storm organizing off the Carolina coast about a week from now. If that happens (and that is a big if seven days out) we might finally get a soaking rain. StormTeam4 will follow all of this closely.

Weather radar

Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to check the weather radar on the go.

10-day forecast

Quickcast

TODAY:
Mostly Sunny
Super Low Humidity
Light Breeze
Wind: Northwest 4-8 mph
Chance Of Rain: 0%
HIGHS: 78° – 84°

TONIGHT:
Mainly Clear
Comfortable
Coolest In Rural Areas
Chance Of Rain: 0%
Wind: Variable 2-5 mph
LOWS: 54° – 64°

WEDNESDAY:
Mostly Sunny
Slightly More Humid
Light Breeze
Chance Of Rain: 0%
Wind: Southeast 4-8 mph
HIGHS: 82° – 86°

THURSDAY:
Sunny Morning
Increasing Clouds
Staying Dry
Wind: Southeast 5-10 mph
Chance Of Rain: 0%
HIGHS: 78° – 84°

FRIDAY:
Partly Sunny
A Bit Humid
Staying Dry
Wind: Southeast 5-10 mph
Chance Of Rain: 0%
HIGHS: 78° – 84°

Sunrise 6:46 Sunset 7:23
Average High: 83° Average Low: 66°

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.

Every summer, Doug takes his forecast on the road to several lucky viewers’ backyards.

We’re looking for locations where the neighborhood will come out and spend a beautiful sunny afternoon with Storm Team4.

Email us at isee@nbcwashington.com to tell us why Doug should come to your house and submit a picture of your backyard and we may come to you!

The haze is smoke from over 100 active wildfires burning in Alberta, Canada, in the last week. The fires have caused more than 24,000 people to be evacuated from the area, NBC News reported Saturday.

The Canadian wildfire smoke blew into the D.C. area on a northwest flow while suspended in the mid-levels of the atmosphere, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

More than 1,500 square miles of Alberta territory were on fire Wednesday, according to data from Esri Canada and Environment Canada, said Storm Team4 Meteorologist Ryan Miller.

“That amount of current fire activity is equivalent to 22 Washington, D.C.’s or 62% of the entire state of Delaware,” Miller tweeted.

The haze’s impact on air quality has not been reported. The D.C. area had a moderate air quality forecast on Thursday, meaning the air poses a moderate health risk for those who are unusually sensitive to pollution, according to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments.

Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell shared that Thursday’s 6 a.m. sunrise was “very red” over D.C.

Later in the morning, Storm Team4 Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer shared a photo of a white sky around the Washington Monument.

A hazy glow was visible in the sunset Wednesday across the region, the NWS said.

The smoke could last as long as Friday but was expected to dissipate Thursday as winds blow south and southwest, according to NWS.

In March, a wildfire from North Carolina brought the smell of smoke to the D.C. area.

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Storm Team4 Forecast: Dry weather presses on as temps rise to low 80s

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A severe thunderstorm watch was in effect until 6 p.m. for Washington D.C. and surrounding suburbs in Maryland and Virginia, and Storm Team4 also declared a Weather Alert. A full list of weather alerts from the National Weather Service can be found here. No more severe weather is expected for the late evening.

A cold front moving into the area Saturday afternoon brought risk of severe storms, damaging winds gusts and hail in certain areas, according to Storm Team4. 

The first system of severe weather started coming into the region at around 2:45 p.m. A less severe line of storms will continue to regress to the east and reach the I-95 corridor around 7 p.m. or 7:30 p.m., Storm Team4 Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer projects.

The storm threats were strong wind, heavy rain with isolated flash flooding possible, lighting and a slight chance of spin-up tornado. Culpeper County saw downed tress and was under a tornado warning.

Saturday’s temperatures began in the high 70s ahead of the storm, about a 20 degree decrease from Friday’s record highs near the 90s.The temperatures warming for a longer period of time will help fuel the approaching storms.

Highs will be in the 60s starting Sunday, and will be well below average for next week.

Metro reminded customers not to run for a bus or train due to the slick conditions caused by rain.

Petworth Porchfest rescheduled its event from Saturday to April 29 due to the potential for thunderstorms.

The D.C. area has been in a dry period, and the storms will give the area much needed rain. After the storms, the area will remain dry until next Thursday, according to Storm Team4.

Here’s how the next few days are looking:

• Sunday: Sun and clouds, cooler. Breezy with a spotty shower. High of 67 degrees.
• Monday: Mostly sunny and cool. High of 63.
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny and cool. High of 64.

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Storms around the DMV started to wind down during the Thursday evening rush.

The temperature change the storm brought in its wake, on the other hand, is sticking around.

Storm Alerts

The D.C. metro area and surrounding locations were under a severe storm watch until 10 p.m.

But not everyone in the region got rain: The strongest storms rolled over the areas south and east of D.C.

A line of storms hit the Interstate 95 corridor during the evening rush.

The main threats with the storms were damaging wind gusts and heavy rain — and, in Charles County, Maryland, golf-ball sized hail.

Temperature Drop

While not everyone around the region saw that heavy rain, everyone will feel the temperature change.

After a record high temperature of 87 degrees on Wednesday, and temperatures in the 80s again on Thursday, temperatures plummeted about 20 degrees in two to three hours on Thursday evening.

The high of 86 degrees around 4 p.m. Thursday afternoon dipped into the 60s by 6:45 p.m. that same day.

Future Forecast

Bring a sweater if you head anywhere Friday or over the weekend as temperatures dip after the rain. And with a chance of frost and freeze in some places overnight, you’ll need a jacket for the evening, overnight and early morning hours.

Much of the region will struggle to make it out of the 50s on Friday, with plenty of clouds lingering.

Saturday will bring more clouds, and continued cool weather with highs in the 50s.

Sunday will warm slightly and see a return to sunshine, but temperatures will stay on the cool side in the low 60s.

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Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said it’s important to stay weather alert during the sweletering heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors, especially if you’re doing strenuous activities.

Temperatures climbed into the mid-90s by about 1:30 p.m., and the heat index reached 103° in Washington, D.C.

There’s a very small chance for storms. Any storms that pop up during the day could turn severe because of the heat.

The good news? This sky-high heat will start to subside by Thursday, although humidity will stick around into Labor Day weekend.

Heat advisories in D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia

A heat advisory has been issued for the afternoon and early evening in D.C., plus much of Maryland and Northern Virginia. The heat index could be at 105° or higher for several hours, Bell said.

Maryland counties under a heat advisory include Charles, Montgomery and Prince George’s. In Virginia, heat advisories were issued for Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties plus nearby cities.

See a full list of weather alerts here.

Air quality alerts

On top of the hot weather, there is poor air quality around the area.

A code orange air quality alert is in effect for D.C. and surrounding areas, which means members of sensitive groups should be extra careful.

Those vulnerable to to air pollution include people with chronic health issues, children and the elderly, but bad pollution can affect healthy people, too.

Air quality Aug 28

How bad is the air quality in the DC area? Enter your ZIP code on this map

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You can check which air quality code was issued in your area and the best tips for staying safe here.

Try your best to limit time outside, reduce strenuous activities like exercise, shorten dog walks and stay hydrated.

School and other local schedule changes due to heat

School is back in session and many districts are grappling with the extreme heat by keeping students inside.

Arlington Public Schools announced that there will be no outdoor recess or other outdoor activities during school hours. After-school activities like athletics will move indoors.

Prince William County Public School announced that all outdoor activities must move inside or be canceled between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Vienna, Virginia, is starting its solid waste collection to begin one hour earlier. Residents are advised to place trash and recycling by the curb at 5 a.m.

Residents of College Park, Maryland should put their trash out earlier too. Solid waste collection will start an hour earlier at 6 a.m.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast. Download the NBC Washington app on iOS and Android to get severe weather alerts on your phone.