Winter storm warning: First snowflakes of season fall in DC; heavy accumulations out west

WASHINGTON - Washington, D.C. saw its first snowflakes of the season on Friday, while regions north and west of the city saw heavy accumulations as a storm system moved across the region.

The light snow flurries began to come down in the District, Bethesda, Gaithersburg and other parts of the D.C. area around 10:30 a.m. Heavier snow began to fall to the west in places like Frederick. Heavier accumulations of up to a foot are expected even further north and west of the District where winter storm warnings have been issued for Garrett County in Maryland, Western Highland County in Virginia, and Western Grant and Western Pendleton Counties in West Virginia.

The snow will be short-lived, however. FOX 5’s Tucker Barnes says expect chilly temperatures in the 40s across the District as the day continues. The snowflakes will transition to a chilly rain by the afternoon and into the evening. Tucker says little or no snow accumulation is expected in D.C.

Winter storm warning: Up to a foot of snow possible in parts of Maryland, Virginia

Heavy snow is expected in these areas with accumulations of between six and 12 inches possible. One to two feet of snow is possible along the ridgetops. Winds may gust as high as 50 mph during this afternoon and into tonight in these regions.

The National Weather Service warns roads, especially bridges and overpasses, are likely to become slick and hazardous in those areas north and west of D.C. Visibilities may drop below a quarter of a mile due to falling and blowing snow, leading to whiteout conditions. Travel could be extremely difficult or even impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact commutes throughout the evening. Additionally, gusty winds may bring down tree branches.

DC weather: Chilly weekend after snowflakes turn to rain Friday; eyes on Thanksgiving threat

The snow is expected to transition to a period of freezing rain or drizzle late Friday into Saturday morning.

Back in the immediate D.C. area, the cold rain will gradually end overnight. Mostly sunny conditions on both Saturday and Sunday with temperatures in the 50s. Mostly sunny and dry early next week with the possibility of showers on Thanksgiving.