Washington, D.C. wakes up under clear skies and comfortable mid-60s temperatures at Reagan National Airport, but the calm start is not sticking around for long. Rain is set to move in by mid-morning and ramp up through the afternoon, with showers turning heavy at times and thunderstorms likely on Wednesday, May 6.
Forecasters are calling for periods of rain roughly between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. The high should reach near 77°F, with southwest winds around 15 mph and gusts up to about 30 mph. A few tenths of an inch of new rainfall is possible, and a Small Craft Advisory is posted for local waters until 6 p.m., according to NWS Baltimore/Washington.
Thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread later in the afternoon and into the evening. Meteorologists say there is still some uncertainty about how unstable the atmosphere becomes once the morning rain moves through. Most storms should feature brief heavy downpours and gusty winds, but the overall severe threat is considered limited. Local forecasters told WTOP that communities east of the Blue Ridge have the best shot at seeing the stronger cells.
Afternoon Winds And Commute
Southerly winds will strengthen through the morning, then flip to the northwest behind the front this evening. Gusts may turn umbrellas into liability gear and send unsecured lawn furniture skittering. The morning and afternoon commutes are likely to feature reduced visibility and slick pavement, so allow extra travel time, slow down, and watch for localized ponding during heavier downpours.
Tonight And Weekend
Showers and thunderstorms are likely to linger into Wednesday night, with lows dropping into the low 50s. Cooler, drier air arrives Thursday, bringing highs in the low 60s and a brighter setup into Friday. Daily chances for afternoon showers or storms return over the weekend as temperatures climb back into the 70s and low 80s by Sunday.
If you have outdoor plans this afternoon or evening, bring a backup shelter plan and consider shifting events earlier or moving them inside. Boaters should heed the Small Craft Advisory through 6 p.m. and check the latest forecast details before heading out. For live updates, keep an eye on NWS radar and local forecasts into the evening.
