PM Update: Storms may affect evening commute, then showers and cooler temps to linger this weekend

The weather so far today was a little dreary with pop-up showers. Temperatures did make it to the low-80s, which is fairly warm for April. Those with spring allergies might see this weather as a relief, washing away the accumulation of pollen. It may also help get the DC area get out of a moderate drought. This weekend will stay true to “April showers” and we’ll have cooler temps than normal.

Convective Outlook for April 21, putting DC region in a marginal risk for severe weather (via Storm Prediction Center)

Through Tonight:

Be careful on that evening commute back home. There is a likely chance for showers throughout the state before 8pm, as well as potential for thunderstorms. After 8pm, the chance of showers starts dropping in addition to the temperature. By 9pm the temperature will be around 70 degrees, and the minimum temperature is in the upper-50s around 3am. Expect calm winds, 3-7 mph (though gusts are likely with any storms), as they become more northerly overnight.

3-hr precipitation total between 5-8pm, showing possible showers in DC region during evening commute (via TerpWRF)

Tomorrow (Saturday):

Happy Earth Day! If you’re heading for the March for Science, bring a poncho. There is a chance of rain before noon and showers becomes more likely as the day continues. The temperatures will hover around the mid- to upper-50s with a possibility of hitting 60 degrees mid-afternoon. Winds remain calm throughout the day. Nighttime looks no different; showers likely, temperatures cool off to lower-50s by midnight, and overall dreary weather.

Composite Radar Reflectivity for Saturday at 2pm, showing showers affecting Maryland (via TerpWRF)

Sunday:

Deja vu? Sunday looks very similar to Saturday’s weather. Showers are likely throughout the day, winds are calm, and temperatures will climb to only 60 degrees. The overnight low is in lower-50s and winds are calm through the day and night. Total precipitation amounts for this weekend will be around 1 inch. With higher amounts toward the south and any areas that experience thunderstorms.

TerpWRF  shows this weekend could feature rain amounts totaling over an inch, with higher amounts to the south.

 

Featured image via Pixabay.com