Capital Weather Gang: February, 2012
Posted at 04:15 PM ET, 02/29/2012
By Ian Livingston
A day we don’t usually see in meteorological winter (Dec.-Feb) will go down as one of the wettest. In fact, the 1.12” (through 3 p.m.) makes this the rainiest we’ve been since the record breaker of 3.10” on December 7. We have not quite made it to the Leap Day record — well,
Dulles and BWI did — of
1.61” in 1892, but there’s still some more water to come before it’s all over.
By Ian Livingston |
04:15 PM ET, 02/29/2012 |
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Posted at 03:13 PM ET, 02/29/2012
By Jason Samenow
Occurring only once every four years, weather records for February 29 are necessarily limited. For example, the number of leap days on record at Dulles airport is just 13, since observations began there in 1963. Thus, it’s not surprising that today’s old rainfall record of 0.51” from 1968 was easily passed today. The airport has received 0.99” so far.
By Jason Samenow |
03:13 PM ET, 02/29/2012 |
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Posted at 01:52 PM ET, 02/29/2012
By Jason Samenow
At least 9 people are dead after a severe thunderstorm outbreak raked portions of the Midwest Tuesday into Wednesday morning. Hardest hit were southern Illinois and Missouri where apparent tornadoes ripped through the towns of Harrisburg, Il. and Branson, Mo.
By Jason Samenow |
01:52 PM ET, 02/29/2012 |
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Posted at 12:36 PM ET, 02/29/2012
By David Streit
We are just beginning our most floriferous time of year. Of course, one of the main treats in Washington, D.C. will be the bloom of the region’s cherry blossoms. This is the 100th anniversary of these trees coming to the Tidal Basin so it should be quite an event.
By David Streit |
12:36 PM ET, 02/29/2012 |
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Posted at 11:16 AM ET, 02/29/2012
By Jason Samenow
The sky took full advantage of February’s extra day, serving up a flavorful morning sunrise around Washington, D.C. As clouds from the incoming weather system streamed in from the west, they were intercepted by the rising sun’s glowing rays. The sky lit up in fiery yellow and orange hues, before it completely clouded over into a uniform, dreary gray. Enjoy these photos!
By Jason Samenow |
11:16 AM ET, 02/29/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/29/2012
By Dan Stillman
Quite an active weather pattern we’ve got here over the next several days. From a chilly rain today with thunder possible this evening, we swing back to sunnier and warmer times tomorrow. Much of Friday is pleasant, but then shower chances return late Friday into Saturday. Today and Sunday should be the coldest days of the bunch, with fairly mild weather in between.
By Dan Stillman |
05:00 AM ET, 02/29/2012 |
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Posted at 05:02 PM ET, 02/28/2012
By Jason Samenow
Until the middle of the afternoon, the region enjoyed clear skies, which boosted temperatures into the mid-50s. Some high clouds are starting to filter in, and they will gradually increase tonight. For Wednesday, both a warm front and cold front come through the area, bringing rain and cool temperatures.
By Jason Samenow |
05:02 PM ET, 02/28/2012 |
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Posted at 01:10 PM ET, 02/28/2012
By Don Lipman
From trying to nail down the rain-snow line in winter to predicting the timing and location of pop-up thunderstorms in summer, the fickle nature of D.C.’s weather presents problems for even the most seasoned forecasters. What forecast challenges do other regions contend with? Are they as difficult as Washington, D.C.’s?
By Don Lipman |
01:10 PM ET, 02/28/2012 |
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Posted at 12:04 PM ET, 02/28/2012
By Jason Samenow
Check out the image just posted to Facebook by NASA’s Earth Observatory of the International Space Station flying over the U.S. East Coast. What stands out most is the prominence of the I-95 corridor from Richmond to New York City - appearing as a river of city lights. Truly a megalopolis....
By Jason Samenow |
12:04 PM ET, 02/28/2012 |
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Posted at 10:54 AM ET, 02/28/2012
By Greg Postel
A powerful storm system will move across the middle of the country today and introduce a chance for severe weather, including tornadoes, over a large area from the southern Plains to the Tennessee Valley. Given the impressive tornado numbers so far this year, and the fact that La Nina is expected to be in place until mid-spring at least, it might be tempting to think we’re lining up for another big year. Not so fast.
By Greg Postel |
10:54 AM ET, 02/28/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/28/2012
By Matt Rogers
Look for cooler weather today with mostly sunny skies before rains arrive tomorrow morning. They could be moderate to heavy tomorrow afternoon with lingering effects into Wednesday night. Drier weather returns Thursday-Friday before more rain returns for Saturday with a cooler, drier Sunday to follow.
By Matt Rogers |
05:00 AM ET, 02/28/2012 |
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Posted at 05:25 PM ET, 02/27/2012
By Jason Samenow
What a delightful day this turned out to be. Wall-to-wall sunshine assisted temperatures in reaching the low-to-mid 60s with just a light breeze. A weak cold front sneaks through the area tonight, just shifting winds to come from a cooler direction. Tuesday remains sunny, but temperatures drop about 10 degrees.
By Jason Samenow |
05:25 PM ET, 02/27/2012 |
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Posted at 04:40 PM ET, 02/27/2012
By Jason Samenow
For the first time in its 54 year history, the Daytona 500 was postponed due to weather Sunday. The race was initially rescheduled for noon today, but was pushed back to 7 p.m. tonight after more showers. As race time draws closer, it’s still not clear if weather conditions will allow it to proceed.
By Jason Samenow |
04:40 PM ET, 02/27/2012 |
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Posted at 02:05 PM ET, 02/27/2012
By Jason Samenow
For the last two nights, Venus, Jupiter and the Moon have put on an amazing show. Positioned close together, they have shined brilliantly, forming an unmistakable triangle in the night sky, visible even amidst city light pollution. The trio will glow prominently yet again tonight.
By Jason Samenow |
02:05 PM ET, 02/27/2012 |
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Posted at 10:40 AM ET, 02/27/2012
By Don Lipman
Whether it’s extreme heat, extreme cold, blizzards, hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, droughts, floods, or just plain high winds, Washington experiences an incredible range of weather conditions. But is D.C. weather really more difficult to forecast than elsewhere or is that just an urban myth, perpetuated by mean-spirited cynics?
By Don Lipman |
10:40 AM ET, 02/27/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/27/2012
By Jason Samenow
The last several days of February will bear close rememblance to the rest of the month: generally milder than average but with a tease of winter thrown in. The wintry tease this week comes Wednesday in the form of a raw, cold, rainy day. Thursday and Friday then look great before some milder rain showers Saturday.
By Jason Samenow |
05:00 AM ET, 02/27/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/26/2012
By Brian Jackson
Plenty of room for improvement after yesterday and we’ll do just that with far less wind and more sun. Conditions get even better as we start the work week (figures) with continued sun and temperatures closer to 60. By midweek, though, we’re looking at a good chance of rain, and another temperature forecast made tough by a warm front.
By Brian Jackson |
05:00 AM ET, 02/26/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/25/2012
By Dan Stillman
More wind is the main story today, with gusts near 40 mph. While the wind has some wintry fury to it today, temperatures this weekend don’t have a terribly chilly punch, though they’re certainly colder than the past few days. Our brief cool down doesn’t last long, however, as the winter that wasn’t continues...
By Dan Stillman |
05:00 AM ET, 02/25/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 PM ET, 02/24/2012
By Jason Samenow
Temperatures significantly underachieved today, only reaching the 50s to near 60, rather than the 70+ forecast (except in the southernmost parts of the region). Intermittent rain showers cycled through, and even some heavier thunderstorms in southern Maryland. Now the winds will pick up significantly as a cold front blows through. A wind advisory is in effect.
By Jason Samenow |
05:00 PM ET, 02/24/2012 |
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Posted at 03:01 PM ET, 02/24/2012
By Jason Samenow
Temperatures have clearly underachieved today, only reaching the 50s in the immediate metro area after forecasts of 70s. The cool wedge over the region has squashed the severe thunderstorm potential for D.C. and points north. However, as close as by as Stafford county in Va. and St. Mary’s county southern Maryland, temperatures have reached 70 (not to mention 80 in Richmond). It’s that area and points south under the gun for heavy thunderstorms this afternoon. Once the rain moves through the region, then howling winds blow in along and behind the cold front.
By Jason Samenow |
03:01 PM ET, 02/24/2012 |
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Posted at 12:53 PM ET, 02/24/2012
By Jason Samenow
A powerful cold front will blast through the mid-Atlantic this afternoon and evening, potentially igniting a line of strong to severe thunderstorms. A tornado watch has been issued for southern Maryland, east central and southeast Virginia, and the eastern Carolinas.
By Jason Samenow |
12:53 PM ET, 02/24/2012 |
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Posted at 10:41 AM ET, 02/24/2012
By Justin Grieser
A balmy 60-degree day in early January might feel like spring, but when darkness falls around 5 p.m., we’re inevitably reminded that it is still winter. Now, at least, we’ve got the longer daylight and higher sun angle to accompany our spring-like temperatures, even if they are (once again) several degrees above average.
By Justin Grieser |
10:41 AM ET, 02/24/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/24/2012
By A. Camden Walker
Today is a warm, showery, and eventually windy one. It just may be tricky to drive high profile vehicles after the front whips through, not to mention debris (like sand) blowing into our eyes. Once this cold front gets through the region, we have a couple cooler days, as breezes abate for Saturday night and Sunday. Overnight lows closer to freezing this weekend, though, may have you reaching for that buried winter coat! Not for long though, as temperatures next week could meet or exceed the 60 degree mark. Ah, what a non-wintry February, eh? (Allergy sufferers say: achoo!)
By A. Camden Walker |
05:00 AM ET, 02/24/2012 |
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Posted at 06:30 PM ET, 02/23/2012
By Jason Samenow
I’m not sure which is more impressive: a tornado the size of a planet on the sun or a wind gust of 20,000 mph in a black hole in outer space. But NASA has recently documented both of these phenomena.
By Jason Samenow |
06:30 PM ET, 02/23/2012 |
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Posted at 04:23 PM ET, 02/23/2012
By Jason Samenow
Sunny skies for much of the day have given way to some clouds ahead of a warm front that will punch through the region tonight. The front may produce a few showers tonight, before even milder air blows into the region, but just briefly. We may surpass 70 Friday but then howling winds brings in colder air for at night into the weekend. The wind is a big deal and has prompted high wind watches west of D.C. and a Fire Weather Watch for much of the region.
By Jason Samenow |
04:23 PM ET, 02/23/2012 |
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Posted at 02:39 PM ET, 02/23/2012
By Jason Samenow
2011 went down in the record books as one of the worst U.S. tornado years on record. Can we say anything about how many tornadoes we’ll have in 2012? That’s debatable but forecasters and research groups are starting to give it a try.
By Jason Samenow |
02:39 PM ET, 02/23/2012 |
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Posted at 11:56 AM ET, 02/23/2012
By Jason Samenow
The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for much of the Washington, D.C. metro region Friday afternoon. A combination of low humidity, strong winds, and a dry ground will create conditions favorable for wildfires, mainly in rural, open areas.
By Jason Samenow |
11:56 AM ET, 02/23/2012 |
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Posted at 10:34 AM ET, 02/23/2012
By Jason Samenow
Heading into the all-star break, the Washington Wizards have the 2nd worst record in the NBA. Washington, D.C. is also the 2nd biggest snow underachiever in the country, trailing only Baltimore for snow futility.
By Jason Samenow |
10:34 AM ET, 02/23/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/23/2012
By David Streit
Yesterday was just the warm up, pun intended, as today makes us all long for an early dismissal from whatever keeps us indoors. Friday also promises another temperature treat but a stronger breeze makes it a bit harder to appreciate and showers may arrive in the afternoon. This sad excuse of a winter tries to bully back in for the weekend but the best it can do is knock highs down to just below normal.
By David Streit |
05:00 AM ET, 02/23/2012 |
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Posted at 04:45 PM ET, 02/22/2012
By Ian Livingston
Partly sunny skies dominated the day, and the fact that spring is creeping ever closer might have been apparent if outdoors. Afternoon temperatures ranging from near 60 to the low 60s were quite delightful! There’s even more warmth ahead tomorrow, but first we might have to deal with a few rain drops here and there.
By Ian Livingston |
04:45 PM ET, 02/22/2012 |
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Posted at 03:25 PM ET, 02/22/2012
By Jason Samenow
Most of the Lower 48 United States has been snow challenged during the winter of 2011-2012. But of all the major cities, Baltimore and Washington, D.C. have the nation’s biggest snowfall deficits compared to normal on a percentage basis.
By Jason Samenow |
03:25 PM ET, 02/22/2012 |
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Posted at 12:03 PM ET, 02/22/2012
By Wes Junker
The warmer than normal winter is expected to continue into at least the first two weeks of March and will probably last through the month. That doesn’t mean there won’t be quick shots of colder than normal weather but that there is unlikely to be sustained cold. And snowstorms will still probably be hard to come by.
By Wes Junker |
12:03 PM ET, 02/22/2012 |
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Posted at 10:35 AM ET, 02/22/2012
By Kevin Ambrose
On Monday, I traveled as far as Charlottesville, to Monticello, then I turned around. I stopped a few times to take photos. Some of the photos, I thought, turned out fairly well so I decided I would share them.
By Kevin Ambrose |
10:35 AM ET, 02/22/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/22/2012
By Dan Stillman
As gas prices keep rising, at least this mild winter is giving us a nice break on home heating costs. The savings really add up today through Friday with highs from near 60 to near 70, and lows tomorrow night higher than our average daytime highs. With the warmth comes a few shower chances and maybe even a thunderstorm. We chill out this weekend, but only back down to around seasonal norms.
By Dan Stillman |
05:00 AM ET, 02/22/2012 |
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Posted at 05:29 PM ET, 02/21/2012
By Jason Samenow
A good number of clouds and a breeze kept it feeling on the chilly side today. Nevertheless, we had just enough sunshine to get close to 50. Variably cloudy skies tonight and brisk, but about 10 degrees milder than last night. And Wednesday afternoon we warm another 10 degrees relative to today. Onward and upward!
By Jason Samenow |
05:29 PM ET, 02/21/2012 |
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Posted at 02:30 PM ET, 02/21/2012
By Greg Postel
For places like D.C., Philly, New York, and obviously points farther south, winter may well be about over (not that it really got started). With a mainly mild and wet close to February, and longer-range models predicting mostly warmer-than-average weather during March, I don’t think odds of adding to the meager snow totals along I-95 corridor are good. That’s not to say winter is over for everyone in the country. Far from it. There are some places that are staring down some nasty cold before the turn of the month.
By Greg Postel |
02:30 PM ET, 02/21/2012 |
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Posted at 12:30 PM ET, 02/21/2012
By Ian Livingston
The forecast for the February 19 storm was not a good one for D.C. snow lovers, unless willing to travel. That’s just what two members of the Capital Weather Gang did, and they managed to find some heavy snow.
By Ian Livingston |
12:30 PM ET, 02/21/2012 |
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Posted at 10:26 AM ET, 02/21/2012
By Jason Samenow
After a largely snowless season, last week there was considerable build-up for the possibility of snow Sunday. But with the exception of Springfield and points south, there wasn’t even a dusting. Some have questioned whether forecasts were overblown for Sunday’s event. But we want to let the record show our forecast was for little or snow in the immediate metro region, starting Friday night.
By Jason Samenow |
10:26 AM ET, 02/21/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/21/2012
By Matt Rogers
After some relatively colder air over the weekend, we are on a trajectory toward big-time warming in the days ahead. After mainly 40s yesterday, look for 50s for highs in most spots today. Tomorrow, most areas should acheive the 60s, while we could reach or exceed the 70-degree mark on Thursday ahead of a big cold front on Friday.
By Matt Rogers |
05:00 AM ET, 02/21/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/20/2012
By Jason Samenow
Some snow lovers held out hope for some unlikely snowflakes Sunday. But unless they resided near Fredericksburg or farther south, they were no doubt disappointed. The upcoming week offers little promise for snow, but warm weather fans will smile, much like they have all winter. After some “chilly” upper 40s today, we’re mainly in the 50s and 60s through Friday. It probably cools down some next weekend.
By Jason Samenow |
05:00 AM ET, 02/20/2012 |
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Posted at 02:13 PM ET, 02/19/2012
By Jason Samenow and Dan Stillman
Don’t be surprised to see some steady snow, perhaps a coating to an inch in D.C.’s southern suburbs this evening. Around the beltway, I’d expect any flakes to be more conversational, with little or no accumulation. The most likely timing would be between 6 and 10 p.m. tonight. North of town, probably just flurries, if that.
By Jason Samenow and Dan Stillman |
02:13 PM ET, 02/19/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/19/2012
By Brian Jackson
As we’ve indicated was quite possible for several days now, little to no snow looks to be the most likely result as a storm tracks mainly to our south this afternoon and evening. Snow lovers are surely crushed, though we still can’t rule out a light accumulation. The storm’s effects do help to keep us on the cool side today. But then it’s right back to business as usual this winter with early-to-mid week highs climbing near and past 50.
By Brian Jackson |
05:00 AM ET, 02/19/2012 |
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Posted at 11:18 PM ET, 02/18/2012
By Jason Samenow
It’s desperation time for snow lovers. The latest models have shifted the northern edge of Sunday’s simulated precipitation south and do not indicate any snow for the District. And even snow prospects south of the District are iffy.
By Jason Samenow |
11:18 PM ET, 02/18/2012 |
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Posted at 04:45 PM ET, 02/18/2012
By Dan Stillman
We’ve been highlighting for several days now the significant chance that tomorrow’s storm tracks too far south to deliver much snow to the area, and as of this afternoon that continues to be the case. The models have mostly now locked in on a storm track that would give the D.C. area 1-2” inches of wet snow at most, with no snow (or at least no accumulating snow) a possibility as well, especially from D.C. to the north.
By Dan Stillman |
04:45 PM ET, 02/18/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/18/2012
By Ian Livingston
If you like snow, you probably were not a fan of the deflating news coming across the wire yesterday. But, with the way things have been this winter, it probably is not a total shock that snow can be hard to come by around here. We’re not “out of the game” just yet, though the odds for snowfall of note have dwindled. We’ve still got to watch the evolution of the storm nonetheless, as small changes can bring varied results, and we’re livin’ on the edge.
By Ian Livingston |
05:00 AM ET, 02/18/2012 |
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Posted at 11:10 PM ET, 02/17/2012
By Jason Samenow
All day long, model guidance has been trending drier and less snowy for Sunday. As icing on the cake, the NAM model - which had been the “snowy” model - simulated no snow for D.C. in its latest run this evening.
By Jason Samenow |
11:10 PM ET, 02/17/2012 |
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Posted at 05:27 PM ET, 02/17/2012
By Jason Samenow
For yet another day, February brought us milder than average temperatures, passing the 50 degree mark. Saturday is no different with 50+ afternoon temperatures likely for the 10th occasion this month. But Sunday is another story. A cold front drapes itself over the region as low pressure approaches from the southwest, bringing a chance of snow, or possibly rain.
By Jason Samenow |
05:27 PM ET, 02/17/2012 |
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Posted at 03:03 PM ET, 02/17/2012
By Wes Junker
Last night, the models seemed to converging towards a snowy solution. It looked like there was a decent chance of meeting winter storm watch criteria. However, today’s runs paint a different picture as there continues to be model chaos. Even the question of precipitation type has not been completely resolved. The overriding unresolved question is how much snow will the storm produce and if it does now how much will stick. Both these questions are very much up in the air as very small changes in the storm track can make huge differences in the amount of precipitation it produces.
By Wes Junker |
03:03 PM ET, 02/17/2012 |
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Posted at 12:25 PM ET, 02/17/2012
By Jason Samenow
During the day yesterday and last night, it looked like models were coming to consensus that we would get significant precipitation Sunday, and at least some of it in the form of snow. Now, it’s not as clear. As the impressive southern storm moves from the western Gulf of Mexico to the North Carolina coast, precipitation will have a sharp northern cutoff. Whether that cutoff is in D.C. area or southern Pennsylvania will make all the difference with respect to the kind of weather conditions we experience Sunday.
By Jason Samenow |
12:25 PM ET, 02/17/2012 |
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Posted at 10:07 AM ET, 02/17/2012
By Steve Tracton
Let’s assume there will be measurable snow on the ground by Monday morning. How do we most reliably figure out “how much?”. The answer to the question is not as straight forward as one might think.
By Steve Tracton |
10:07 AM ET, 02/17/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/17/2012
By Brian Jackson
Most of you are probably here hoping to see how much snow is in the forecast. We’ll get to that, but first we’ve got to address today and tomorrow, then enjoy it. Enjoy being the operative word with plenty of sun shining down and temperatures up into the 50s. Our developing Sunday storm looks primed to threaten the biggest snowfall this nearly snowless winter season, but with details still on the sketchy side, certainty isn't a part of the forecast yet.
By Brian Jackson |
05:00 AM ET, 02/17/2012 |
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Posted at 11:17 PM ET, 02/16/2012
By Jason Samenow
The models coming in this evening, thus far, have trended colder - which is critical for Sunday’s snow prospects. And while some earlier model runs showed the storm just grazing us, according to this evening’s runs, it now delivers a pretty good blow. So it looks like the necessary moisture and cold air may be coming together for accumulating snow Sunday. But - with the storm still 60-70 hours away - significant fluctuations to the forecast are possible.
By Jason Samenow |
11:17 PM ET, 02/16/2012 |
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Posted at 05:27 PM ET, 02/16/2012
By Jason Samenow
Today was showery and gray, but the last of the rains have moved off, and conditions improve to close out the work week. Some patchy fog may form tonight, but sunshine Friday burns that off with relative ease. Temperatures will continue to be solidly above average, with Friday’s highs into the 50s.
By Jason Samenow |
05:27 PM ET, 02/16/2012 |
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Posted at 05:17 PM ET, 02/16/2012
By Patricia Sullivan and Jason Samenow
Since 2006, nine in 10 Virginians and four in 5 Americans, have lived through extreme weather events ranging from unusually severe blizzards to torrential tropical storms. A new report from Environment America, tailored to local areas, warns that global warming could lead to similar disasters becoming more common in the future.
By Patricia Sullivan and Jason Samenow |
05:17 PM ET, 02/16/2012 |
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Posted at 01:53 PM ET, 02/16/2012
By Wes Junker
We continue to see the potential for a winter storm Sunday and at least a chance that some precipitation falls as snow.
By Wes Junker |
01:53 PM ET, 02/16/2012 |
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Posted at 11:36 AM ET, 02/16/2012
By Ann Posegate
There’s no doubt some snow lovers resent this winter’s warmth and lack of precipitation. But despite our own preferences for warm weather, our pets may be enjoying it more than we know.
By Ann Posegate |
11:36 AM ET, 02/16/2012 |
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Posted at 10:15 AM ET, 02/16/2012
By Jason Samenow
Sickened by the lack of snow this year? Venture out to the eastern shore of Delaware and get your snow fix. Snow geese fix, that is. Nature photographer Cortez Austin did exactly that, and he captured some gorgeous images of these graceful birds.
By Jason Samenow |
10:15 AM ET, 02/16/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/16/2012
By Matt Rogers
The sun takes a hiatus today with cloudy skies and showers mainly in the afternoon. Fairly mild conditions push high temperatures to the upper 40s and low 50s. Sunny skies return tomorrow to end the week as temperatures rocket back up into the mild low-to-mid 50s. Saturday is looking decent with partly sunny skies and more 50s. Question marks begin for Saturday night and Sunday as various models argue different scenarios, but they are trending stormier.
By Matt Rogers |
05:00 AM ET, 02/16/2012 |
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Posted at 04:15 PM ET, 02/15/2012
By Ian Livingston
Another day, another high temperature above 50 degrees. Over half (8 of 15 days) have reached that mark now. We don’t get to
that point in our averages until the end of the month usually. It was quite a beauty though today, tons of sunshine and little to no bothersome wind. Hope you enjoyed, as tomorrow won’t be nearly as nice.
By Ian Livingston |
04:15 PM ET, 02/15/2012 |
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Posted at 02:07 PM ET, 02/15/2012
By Jason Samenow
The potential exists for a major East Coast storm this weekend, but it’s just as likely the storm passes to our south, harmlessly out to sea. Even if we get a storm, it’s not clear if precipitation would take the form of snow, rain, or some sloppy combination. In other words, right now we have more questions than answer.
By Jason Samenow |
02:07 PM ET, 02/15/2012 |
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Posted at 11:21 AM ET, 02/15/2012
By Jason Samenow
Starting this Friday, the National Weather Service (NWS) is upgrading the region’s radar, sited in Sterling, Va., to include dual polarization technology. This technology will allow meteorologists to see storms in a totally new dimension offering the potential to significantly improve forecasts, especially during flood events and severe weather.
By Jason Samenow |
11:21 AM ET, 02/15/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/15/2012
By Dan Stillman
We’ve got a chance to reach or surpass 50 degrees each of the next four days (though tomorrow may fall just short). Can’t always say that in mid-February, but it’s par for the course as this winter goes. Anything that falls with a system coming through tomorrow will be in the form of rain. The holiday weekend, however, could be a different story. Emphasis on the could though.
By Dan Stillman |
05:00 AM ET, 02/15/2012 |
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Posted at 04:44 PM ET, 02/14/2012
By Jason Samenow
For a part of the early afternoon, the skies offered some Valentine’s day love, with a window of splendid sunshine. But for most of the day, it’s been cloudy, with a few sprinkles mainly north of the District. The clouds stick around tonight, but Wednesday looks wonderful, with sunshine and temperatures in the 50s.
By Jason Samenow |
04:44 PM ET, 02/14/2012 |
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Posted at 03:34 PM ET, 02/14/2012
By Greg Postel
According to the weather model consensus, a westerly flow of mild air has begun to flood western Canada in a way that will soon allow a broad cyclonic (counterclockwise) flow to develop west of the Continental Divide. This will provide relief from the recent frigid temperatures in the Plains, and more likely than not, set the stage for …and winter lovers will hate this… a mild and wet finish to February.
By Greg Postel |
03:34 PM ET, 02/14/2012 |
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Posted at 02:03 PM ET, 02/14/2012
By Wes Junker
Yesterday several computer models suggested there was a chance of a snowstorm Sunday. Now, several of them are backing away from that idea. The most we can now say about this weekend is there is a chance of rain or snow, but it’s even more likely the entire system stays far enough to our south that we remain dry.
By Wes Junker |
02:03 PM ET, 02/14/2012 |
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Posted at 11:40 AM ET, 02/14/2012
By Ian Livingston
February, the final month of meteorological winter (Dec-Feb), features plenty of cold air many years, but also a hint of what’s to come in the months ahead with a hint of milder times. On average, precipitation remains at a cold-season nadir. Still, the month has provided many memorable snowstorms.
By Ian Livingston |
11:40 AM ET, 02/14/2012 |
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Posted at 10:15 AM ET, 02/14/2012
By Kevin Ambrose
You have heard of graupel, right? If it’s not a snowflake, it’s not hail, it’s not sleet, it’s not snow pellets, but it’s white and falls from the sky, then there is a good chance it is graupel. On Saturday afternoon, a squall moved through Manassas, Virginia that produced graupel during its onset.
By Kevin Ambrose |
10:15 AM ET, 02/14/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/14/2012
By Matt Rogers
The active jet stream pattern brings a weather system to our neighborhoods every two to three days. The next one arrives today with clouds and a slight chance of showers. Clearing tomorrow brings us nice 50s, while another round of showers and clouds for Thursday. Friday is better, and the weekend looks mostly nice, except for an outside chance of a Sunday into President’s Day problem.
By Matt Rogers |
05:00 AM ET, 02/14/2012 |
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Posted at 04:30 PM ET, 02/13/2012
By Ian Livingston
Goodbye serious cold! After morning temperatures in the teens to mid-20s, we rebounded very nicely today under mostly sunny skies and light winds. Afternoon temperatures in the upper 40s to near 50 are pretty close to normal for this time of year, and there’s no sign of really cold air in the near future at least. We’re keeping an eye on a little moisture for tomorrow, and the keywords there are probably “a little.”
By Ian Livingston |
04:30 PM ET, 02/13/2012 |
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Posted at 03:32 PM ET, 02/13/2012
By Jason Samenow
For about 36 hours, between sunset Saturday and sunrise this morning, it actually looked and felt like winter. We had wind, cold, and even a dusting of the white stuff. But this afternoon, we’ve warmed back up to almost 50 degrees. It’s tempting to say winter is over, but a number of computer models are hinting: hold your horses...
By Jason Samenow |
03:32 PM ET, 02/13/2012 |
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Posted at 02:00 PM ET, 02/13/2012
By Andrew Freedman
A new study on melting glaciers and ice caps has received quite a bit of press attention, some of it rather confusing. While the paper (technically a letter) published in the journal Nature, concluded that glaciers and ice caps worldwide lost about 4.3 trillion tons of mass between 2003-2010 - enough to cover the entire United States with water 1.5 feet deep - there were some regions where glaciers and ice caps did not lose nearly as much ice as previously thought.
By Andrew Freedman |
02:00 PM ET, 02/13/2012 |
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Posted at 12:19 PM ET, 02/13/2012
By Jason Samenow
Extremely dangerous cyclone Giovanna, equivalent to a category 4 hurricane, is set to make landfall on the east coast of Madagascar today. The powerful storm contains maximum sustained winds of 145 mph (125 knots) and may produce extensive damage on this island off the southeastern coast of Africa.
By Jason Samenow |
12:19 PM ET, 02/13/2012 |
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Posted at 10:22 AM ET, 02/13/2012
By Jason Samenow
The heaviest snowfall in recent memory has buried parts of Romania under 13 to 15 feet of snow. The snow has reached the roofs of houses in some villages.
By Jason Samenow |
10:22 AM ET, 02/13/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/13/2012
By Jason Samenow
In terms of a bitter combination of wind and cold, winter may have reached its bottom Sunday morning. To kickoff this week, it’s noticeably less cold than it just was, and we slowly trend milder during the work week. The transition is a little choppy, with opportunities for rain and some more wet snow flakes Tuesday and Thursday.
By Jason Samenow |
05:00 AM ET, 02/13/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/12/2012
By Brian Jackson
In case you missed our brief, wanna-be blizzard yesterday, winter’s back with a vengeance today. Gusty winds make it feel like the teens much of the day as actual air temperatures don’t get past the mid-30s. Don’t worry though, high pressure returns to warm us back up to normal and above normal as we head through the first half of the work week.
By Brian Jackson |
05:00 AM ET, 02/12/2012 |
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Posted at 04:15 PM ET, 02/11/2012
By Dan Stillman and Jason Samenow
That brief burst of snow many saw this afternoon was triggered by an arctic front - the strongest we’ve seen this winter so far. While a few snow showers remain possible through evening, the bigger story now becomes falling temperatures and increasingly gusty winds.
By Dan Stillman and Jason Samenow |
04:15 PM ET, 02/11/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/11/2012
By Ian Livingston
Some of us are waking up to white ground this morning after light snow targeted mainly the north and west suburbs overnight. That snow may melt off today as temperatures climb back up a bit ahead of the Arctic front that’s inbound. You’ll know it’s here by one of three ways, and perhaps all three: increasing wind from the northwest, falling temperatures, and snow showers or squalls. While the most intense snow squalls may be hit-or-miss, any place they hit could pick up light accumulation rather quickly.
By Ian Livingston |
05:00 AM ET, 02/11/2012 |
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Posted at 05:03 PM ET, 02/10/2012
By Jason Samenow
Clouds moved in quickly this afternoon, capping temperatures a few degrees shy of expectations. Rain arrives this evening, mixing with and changing to sleet and snow late tonight mainly in the outer north and west suburbs. Saturday’s blustery with falling temperatures late along with possible snow squalls after dark. Sunday’s breezy and quite cold, but probably precipitation free.
By Jason Samenow |
05:03 PM ET, 02/10/2012 |
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Posted at 04:10 PM ET, 02/10/2012
By Jason Samenow
During baseball’s steroid era, homerun numbers surged to astronomical levels, but that didn’t prevent some of the sport’s juiced sluggers from occasionally striking out. The University Center for Atmospheric Research wants the public to understand this concept as it pertains to global warming and our weather records.
By Jason Samenow |
04:10 PM ET, 02/10/2012 |
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Posted at 11:12 AM ET, 02/10/2012
By Jason Samenow
Two rounds of wintry weather will visit the region in the next 36 hours. The first, tonight, should be mostly light rain but may put down a little snow in the far northwest suburbs. The second, Saturday afternoon and evening, offers the chance of rain showers changing over to snow showers as temperatures rapidly fall, possibly creating pockets of slick travel Saturday evening.
By Jason Samenow |
11:12 AM ET, 02/10/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/10/2012
By Brian Jackson
Our return to a pleasantly mild winter concludes today but we can probably crack 50 once again with some early sun. On deck though, another light wintry mix event is possible tonight and tomorrow with temperature issues once again throwing doubt into the equation. Much like this past Wednesday’s storm, we’re cold enough aloft, but just a tad warm at the surface. However, the incoming cold is much stronger this time and could be enough to get that changeover across the area before precipitation chances depart.
By Brian Jackson |
05:00 AM ET, 02/10/2012 |
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Posted at 04:58 PM ET, 02/09/2012
By Jason Samenow
We logged our 18th straight warmer than average day today, with highs reaching into the mid-to-upper 40s. It will be seasonably cold tonight, but with full sunshine tomorrow, temperatures head up to near 50 to close out the work week. The big cool down holds off until the weekend.
By Jason Samenow |
04:58 PM ET, 02/09/2012 |
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Posted at 04:27 PM ET, 02/09/2012
By Jason Samenow
It’s a tale of two continents. While temperatures have remained above normal all winter long in the U.S. and North America, much of Europe recently flipped from a mild pattern to its coldest in 20 years.
By Jason Samenow |
04:27 PM ET, 02/09/2012 |
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Posted at 01:43 PM ET, 02/09/2012
By Wes Junker
Another tricky winter weather event is on the horizon for Friday night into early Saturday morning. Like so many of the events recently, there are still questions about how much cold air and moisture will be available to the system.
By Wes Junker |
01:43 PM ET, 02/09/2012 |
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Posted at 12:02 PM ET, 02/09/2012
By Jason Samenow
The La Nina pattern, linked to one the most extreme weather years on record in 2011 in the U.S., is forecast to fade away this spring according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
By Jason Samenow |
12:02 PM ET, 02/09/2012 |
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Posted at 10:07 AM ET, 02/09/2012
By Jason Samenow
Our forecast for at least “conversational flakes” around the District yesterday was a bad one. What went wrong?
By Jason Samenow |
10:07 AM ET, 02/09/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/09/2012
By David Streit
One flirtation with winter has just ended but there could be yet another Friday night into Saturday morning. No cause to even think about a grocery store run, but snow or rain showers are possible. The upcoming weekend’s biggest taste of winter weather arises from the temperatures that barely get above freezing Sunday. Not to worry, though, spring-like weather looks to come back next week.
By David Streit |
05:00 AM ET, 02/09/2012 |
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Posted at 04:00 PM ET, 02/08/2012
By Ian Livingston
Snow, rain and a rain/snow mix continues across the area, and should do so for the next few hours before tapering off from southwest to northeast. As with most of our snow events this year, elevation and being north and west of the city has been critical if you’re looking for accumulation. Once above about 1,000 feet to the north and west, snow has stuck on the order of .5-1” thus far with more to come. That quickly falls off to dustings and coatings at lower elevation in the same areas, and nothing further south and east.
By Ian Livingston |
04:00 PM ET, 02/08/2012 |
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Posted at 11:58 AM ET, 02/08/2012
By Jason Samenow
Stay tuned to this live blog for the latest updates on this snow (and rain) event through mid-afternoon.
By Jason Samenow |
11:58 AM ET, 02/08/2012 |
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Posted at 10:48 AM ET, 02/08/2012
By Jason Samenow
Today’s snow event is a minor one and may even be more rain than snow south and east of the District. Nonetheless, the coincidence of the storm’s heaviest precipitation with the afternoon commute may cause some slow going, especially in the colder north and west suburbs.
By Jason Samenow |
10:48 AM ET, 02/08/2012 |
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Posted at 09:55 AM ET, 02/08/2012
By Jason Samenow
NASA, who provides jaw-dropping visuals of the Earth and outer space every day, has outdone itself with a photo in our very own backyard. It captured last night’s full snow moon in dramatic fashion as it rose over the Capitol.
By Jason Samenow |
09:55 AM ET, 02/08/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/08/2012
By Dan Stillman
Will winter 2011-12 deliver a major winter storm? Maybe, but not today. We do get ourselves a taste of the white stuff, though, starting between late morning and early afternoon. Light to moderate snow, possibly starting as or mixing with rain from D.C. to the south and southeast, might be just enough to whiten the ground for some, and cause some evening commute headaches as well.
By Dan Stillman |
05:00 AM ET, 02/08/2012 |
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Posted at 10:53 PM ET, 02/07/2012
By Jason Samenow
Based on this evening’s model runs, our forecast for Wednesday’s snow event is on track. The most important point to emphasize is that the “worst” of this event now looks like it will come through during the afternoon and evening rush hour.
By Jason Samenow |
10:53 PM ET, 02/07/2012 |
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Posted at 04:24 PM ET, 02/07/2012
By Jason Samenow
For the 15th straight day, temperatures climbed to above normal levels, reaching the mid-50s under delightful sunshine. But that streak most likely ends tomorrow, as a little disturbance zips through the region, offering up a period of light snow - primarily in the afternoon and evening. Accumulations will mostly occur in the colder west and northwest suburbs.
By Jason Samenow |
04:24 PM ET, 02/07/2012 |
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Posted at 03:04 PM ET, 02/07/2012
By Greg Postel
After a few mild, spring-like days this week in the East, a cold shot from Canada will move in for the weekend and deliver a brief dose of February for a change. It does seem a little odd that an upcoming 2-3 day bout with chilly air – carrying temperatures perhaps as much as 8-16°F below average- deserves headlines. But given that winter 2011-12 has so far given us a temperature map like this, a cold snap of any kind is worth discussing.
By Greg Postel |
03:04 PM ET, 02/07/2012 |
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Posted at 12:27 PM ET, 02/07/2012
By Jason Samenow
A weak area of low pressure will drift through the metro region Wednesday afternoon, producing a period of light snow. Temperatures in the immediate metro region will tend to be above freezing, limiting accumulation to primarily grassy areas. The farther north and west you go, the colder it will be, and thus, the more predicted accumulation.
By Jason Samenow |
12:27 PM ET, 02/07/2012 |
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Posted at 10:58 AM ET, 02/07/2012
By Steve Tracton
This winter is the bicentennial (200th) anniversary of the New Madrid, Missouri earthquakes, a series of the most powerful earthquakes to strike the eastern U.S. in recorded history.
By Steve Tracton |
10:58 AM ET, 02/07/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/07/2012
By Matt Rogers
Another excellent day graces our region today with sunshine and warmer-than-normal temperatures. Clouds creep back into the picture tonight and tomorrow along with a good chance of light snow or rain. Thursday and Friday go back to being fairly nice with just-above normal temperatures, but a series of disturbances and cold fronts push us back into real winter this weekend.
By Matt Rogers |
05:00 AM ET, 02/07/2012 |
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Posted at 04:30 PM ET, 02/06/2012
By Ian Livingston
How about that wall-to-wall sunshine today? The increasing sun angle is becoming more apparent by the day, and it helped temperatures in the low-and-mid 50s feel even milder than they were. We’ve got another in our lengthy streak of above average temperatures coming tomorrow. Enjoying it or longing for snow?
By Ian Livingston |
04:30 PM ET, 02/06/2012 |
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Posted at 02:38 PM ET, 02/06/2012
By Andrew Freedman
Above-average rainfall during December and January have helped ease the Texas drought in some areas. But other parts of the state are still facing water restrictions, and the Texas rice industry is bracing for the potential loss of an entire year’s worth of earnings.
By Andrew Freedman |
02:38 PM ET, 02/06/2012 |
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Posted at 01:34 PM ET, 02/06/2012
By Jason Samenow
On Tuesday, February 7, the Earth facing side of “Full Snow Moon” will shine brightly in the night sky. And thanks to NASA, close-up views of the moon’s other side, are coming online.
By Jason Samenow |
01:34 PM ET, 02/06/2012 |
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Posted at 11:26 AM ET, 02/06/2012
By Jason Samenow
A disturbance with some tropical characteristics formed in the northern Caribbean over the weekend and is bringing heavy rains and gusty winds to south Florida and the Florida Keys.
By Jason Samenow |
11:26 AM ET, 02/06/2012 |
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Posted at 10:15 AM ET, 02/06/2012
By Jason Samenow
Two years ago, Snowmageddon, one of the D.C. area’s biggest snowstorms on record, finally came to a close in the late afternoon. That was after dumping a mind boggling 18-32” of snow over the course of about 30 hours. The storm shut the city down for days and is etched in the memories of all those who lived through it.
By Jason Samenow |
10:15 AM ET, 02/06/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/06/2012
By Jason Samenow
Compared to last week, this week feels more winter-like, but with highs most days reaching well into the 40s, it’s not exactly bone-chilling cold. We’ve got a streak of 14 straight days with above average temperatures and it may take until the weekend to break it. For the most part, the weather is dry, but some light rain or snow showers can’t be ruled out Wednesday.
By Jason Samenow |
05:00 AM ET, 02/06/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/05/2012
By A. Camden Walker
Clearing skies later today lead us into a mostly quiet, but not completely uneventful early-to-mid work week. Temperatures head back to near and past 50 Monday and Tuesday, with a few sprinkles or flurries possible tomorrow and perhaps some light rain or snow Wednesday. We’re not too worried about accumulation, at least for the moment.
By A. Camden Walker |
05:00 AM ET, 02/05/2012 |
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Posted at 12:21 PM ET, 02/04/2012
By Dan Stillman and Jason Samenow
Remnants of the winter storm that buried the Denver area Thursday night into Friday night are headed toward D.C. The storm, however, is a weaker version of its original self. That combined with recent mild temperatures means much of the precipitation we see will be on the light side and in the form of rain to start. Rain changes to snow north and west of the District, with light accumulations possible, mainly on grassy areas.
By Dan Stillman and Jason Samenow |
12:21 PM ET, 02/04/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/04/2012
By Ian Livingston
With only around 1-2” of snow accumulation on the winter in most local spots, snow lovers are surely hungry for more. This forecast may tease more than fully satiate those needs. But, let’s look at the plus side here: minimized travel impacts on Super Bowl Sunday and still a good chance to see flakes flying. It might not be enough for snow angels, but in this winter we take what we can get!
By Ian Livingston |
05:00 AM ET, 02/04/2012 |
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Posted at 11:18 PM ET, 02/03/2012
By Jason Samenow
A quick glance at the evening model data indicates no big changes are required for Saturday night and Sunday when some wintry precipitation may move into the region.
By Jason Samenow |
11:18 PM ET, 02/03/2012 |
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Posted at 05:05 PM ET, 02/03/2012
By Jason Samenow
Today marked the 12th straight day with above average temperatures and we’ll add another Saturday. But late Saturday, low pressure approaches from the southwest, initially bringing light rain. And by early Sunday morning, that light rain may mix with and change to snow. Sunday - for a change - looks wintry, with morning snow (or rain/snow mix south) and chilly temperatures.
By Jason Samenow |
05:05 PM ET, 02/03/2012 |
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Posted at 02:10 PM ET, 02/03/2012
By Ian Livingston
Only about 15 percent of all winters in D.C. have recorded as little or less snow than we’ve seen this year. We’re now running almost 7” below normal season to date and it’s leaving some wondering what our chances are to break even. A look at past occurrences and the historical record might offer a few clues.
By Ian Livingston |
02:10 PM ET, 02/03/2012 |
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Posted at 11:59 AM ET, 02/03/2012
By Jason Samenow and Dan Stillman
We’ve been watching for several days now the potential for wintry precipitation this weekend. The responsible storm system is on its way to breaking a single storm snowfall record for February around Denver (9” already) but will weaken by the time it reaches the mid-Atlantic. Not to mention, there will be much less cold air to work with.
By Jason Samenow and Dan Stillman |
11:59 AM ET, 02/03/2012 |
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Posted at 10:23 AM ET, 02/03/2012
By Justin Grieser
Europe is currently in the grips of its worst cold snap in at least six years. Arctic air has been spilling out of Siberia into Eastern Europe, bringing more than a foot of snow to Istanbul and temperatures as low as -30ºC (-22ºF) in several neighboring countries.
By Justin Grieser |
10:23 AM ET, 02/03/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/03/2012
By A. Camden Walker
Today through tomorrow morning should remain fairly tranquil and sunny, before clouds begin to arrive Saturday afternoon or evening. Those clouds could produce some rain or snow showers late tomorrow night and into early Sunday. There’s even an outside chance of accumulation if things come together right. But temperatures are going to be marginal, and the precipitation cutoff sharp. Our higher forecast confidence doesn’t return until Monday and Tuesday, when calmer and mild conditions -- in the upper 40s to mid-50s -- return as well.
By A. Camden Walker |
05:00 AM ET, 02/03/2012 |
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Posted at 04:51 PM ET, 02/02/2012
By Jason Samenow
After a gloomy start with clouds and showers, mother nature staged a rally with mild sunshine this afternoon. Temperatures soared into the upper 50s as if to defy Punxsutawney Phil‘s forecast for 6 more weeks of winter. The work week closes out with another warmer than average day, but we do have to start paying attention to a (small) chance of snow Saturday night.
By Jason Samenow |
04:51 PM ET, 02/02/2012 |
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Posted at 03:46 PM ET, 02/02/2012
By Jason Samenow
So popular was NASA’s release of the “Blue Marble” image of the western hemisphere, it constructed an equally (more?) stunning version of the reverse side. Now behold the eastern hemisphere of our amazing planet.
By Jason Samenow |
03:46 PM ET, 02/02/2012 |
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Posted at 02:40 PM ET, 02/02/2012
By Jason Samenow
A major winter storm is forecast to blast both Denver and Boulder, Colorado with 10 to 20 inches of snow through Friday. Over the weekend, the storm is forecast to weaken, but some of its remnant moisture may stream into the D.C. metro region. Enough cold air may be in place for the chance of a little snow Saturday night.
By Jason Samenow |
02:40 PM ET, 02/02/2012 |
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Posted at 01:06 PM ET, 02/02/2012
By Jason Samenow
Will we have 6 more weeks of winter, or 6 added weeks of allergy suffering? Bet on the latter. The U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) pollen report issued today for Washington, D.C. indicates both mold spores and tree pollen are well above average for the time of year.
By Jason Samenow |
01:06 PM ET, 02/02/2012 |
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Posted at 10:20 AM ET, 02/02/2012
By David Streit
Let me say right off the bat, my garden does not look much different this year than any other year, except it isn’t buried under a snow drift! Why is that? Many of our plants evolved over the centuries to be more in tune with the dependable daylight hours than the more erratic temperature regime.
By David Streit |
10:20 AM ET, 02/02/2012 |
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Posted at 07:25 AM ET, 02/02/2012
By Jason Samenow
At 7:25 a.m. this morning, amidst mostly cloudy skies, and temperatures in the low 30s, Groundhog Phil saw his shadow in the little town of Punxsutawney, Pa. According to folklore, Phil’s sighting of his own shadow means there will be six more weeks of winter.
By Jason Samenow |
07:25 AM ET, 02/02/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/02/2012
By David Streit
My bet is that the groundhog Phil will not see his shadow this morning. If that means winter is over, we better crank up the AC based on the kind of winter we have had. The next few days will continue the trend of warmer than normal winter weather but nothing quite like the last two spring days. There is a slight chance that light rain could visit on Sunday but you will be inside prepping for the Super Bowl, right?
By David Streit |
05:00 AM ET, 02/02/2012 |
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Posted at 04:30 PM ET, 02/01/2012
By Ian Livingston
There was no record heat locally today, but we still saw plenty of springlike upper 60s and lower 70s! National Airport topped out at around 72 degrees before 2 p.m., and D.C. spent much of the afternoon right around 70 despite passing clouds. That’s more than 25 degrees above the normal afternoon high for February 1! Hope you had some time to enjoy it -- temperatures are headed back down, though still above average on the whole.
By Ian Livingston |
04:30 PM ET, 02/01/2012 |
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Posted at 03:54 PM ET, 02/01/2012
By Jason Samenow
On Tuesday, a 3.1 magnitude aftershock centered 40 miles northwest of Richmond rattled central Virginia. The tremor could be felt as close by as the Districts west and southwest suburbs. Since the August 28 5.8 magnitude earthquake, there have been almost 50 aftershocks of at least magnitude 2.0 in central Va, begging the question: when will they end?
By Jason Samenow |
03:54 PM ET, 02/01/2012 |
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Posted at 02:25 PM ET, 02/01/2012
By Jason Samenow
January 1950 was a shocking 12 degrees warmer than average in Washington, DC with 14 days above 60 degrees, including 6 above 70. By comparison, our very mild January 2012 was a mere 5 degrees above normal. What made January 1950 so warm?
By Jason Samenow |
02:25 PM ET, 02/01/2012 |
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Posted at 11:21 AM ET, 02/01/2012
By Matt Rogers
The winter of 2011-2012 has taken on a completely different character compared to the previous few winters which started off cold. After the 6th warmest December on record (tie), January 2012 concluded with an average temperature 4.8 degrees warmer than normal (1981-2000 normal), the 17th warmest on record (tied with 1876).
By Matt Rogers |
11:21 AM ET, 02/01/2012 |
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Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 02/01/2012
By Dan Stillman
Don’t get me wrong, I love myself a good blizzard. But personally I’m psyched for a second straight midwinter day in the 60s. After today’s warmth, which may come with a shower or sprinkle, we’re gradually colder into the weekend, and possibly cold enough for a wintry mix this weekend if the right circumstances come together.
By Dan Stillman |
05:00 AM ET, 02/01/2012 |
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