Washington, D.C., wakes up Saturday, May 9, under a blanket of mostly cloudy skies, temperatures hovering near 60°F, and a gentle southerly breeze that hints at what is coming later. The city is on track to warm into the low to mid 70s this afternoon, which sounds great for outdoor plans, at least until scattered showers and a few thunderstorms start nosing in toward late day.
Afternoon Showers And Gusty Winds
By early afternoon Saturday, around 1 p.m., a few isolated showers could start popping up. The better bet for wet weather runs roughly from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., when scattered showers and thunderstorms become more likely. The stronger cells could kick up gusty winds around 20 to 25 mph and drop brief heavy downpours, although most neighborhoods are more likely to see lighter amounts of rain. Highs should top out near 74°F in the city, so expect a warm and somewhat muggy setup before storms arrive.
The National Weather Service pegs the overall chance of precipitation this afternoon at about 60 percent, with wind gusts into the low 20s possible as showers and storms roll through.
Tides And Boaters
A Coastal Flood Advisory is posted for this morning's high tide at Annapolis. Low-lying spots, including Dock Street and the City Dock area, may see minor ponding and slow drainage as water backs up. On the water, a Small Craft Advisory is in effect through 6 p.m., with gusty southerly channeling and extra punch from any isolated thunderstorm outflows. If your plans involve the shoreline, build in extra time, keep an eye on the tide cycle, and steer clear of driving through any standing water.
Sunday Warmth And Early Week Outlook
Sunday, May 10, brings a noticeable warm-up, with afternoon highs near 83°F, but it is not a free pass for blue-sky barbecues. A cold front sliding in late in the day will boost the chances for afternoon and evening thunderstorms. Showers then become more widespread Sunday night into Monday, May 11, with Monday's highs slipping back into the mid 60s and rain likely during the morning commute.
Forecasters are also flagging a late Monday night window where frost or near-freezing temperatures could sneak into sheltered valleys west of the Blue Ridge, so gardeners should keep tabs on overnight readings. For background on the setup that has been building, check out our May 7 forecast update in this earlier forecast breakdown.
Plan Ahead
If you are heading outside today, bring a rain jacket and have a backup plan ready for afternoon and evening activities. Secure lawn furniture and lighter gear in case a storm drags some gusty winds through your block. Drivers should slow down near water-covered stretches and never try to push a car through standing floodwater. Boaters and waterfront businesses should keep a close watch on the latest conditions, tie down loose equipment, and check the marine forecast before casting off.
