Clouds, mid-50s temperatures at Reagan National and a damp chill set a soggy tone for Washington on Wednesday, April 29, and it is only going downhill from there. Rain showers are expected to move in late this morning and grow steadier through the afternoon, with some storms muscling in tonight. Commuters should plan on wet roads, slower traffic and a few brief downpours during the evening rush.
Timing And Intensity
Rain showers are likely between about 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29, with the atmosphere turning more active later in the day. Heavier showers and scattered thunderstorms are expected roughly between about 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Local rainfall totals of a quarter to a half inch are possible, and southeasterly winds this afternoon could gust to around 20 mph before shifting westerly and increasing to 7 to 12 mph with gusts near 22 mph tonight. These details come from the National Weather Service.
Evening Severe Potential
Widespread severe weather is not anticipated, but the pattern does allow for an isolated strong storm capable of producing damaging wind gusts, and in a low-probability scenario an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out this evening. The Storm Prediction Center maintains a Marginal Risk for parts of the region, and local forecasters note that damaging straight-line winds are the most likely severe outcome. If you have plans after sunset, keep an eye on watches and warnings and be ready to head inside if storms flare.
Boaters, Commuters And Plans
Mariners should heed Small Craft Advisories that begin at 11 a.m. for Chesapeake and Potomac waters and run into early Thursday morning, as gusty southeast winds and the chance of strong storms kick up choppy conditions. On land, drivers can expect wet pavement, ponding in the usual trouble spots and reduced visibility during afternoon and evening travel, so it is worth building in extra time and securing any loose outdoor furniture or trash cans that could blow around. If you are headed to an evening event, have an indoor backup, and keep phone alerts or a battery radio handy in case warnings are issued.
What Comes After
Behind the front, Thursday turns breezy and sunnier with a high near 66 and northwest gusts into the mid 20s mph. A cooler weekend follows, with highs in the upper 50s to low 60s and several nights of below-normal temperatures that could produce frost in inland spots overnight. We will update readers if watches, advisories or conditions change as the system pushes east.
