Thanksgiving weather could impact your travel plans

WASHINGTON — We have been stuck in a very dry weather pattern the past several weeks, but beneficial rain is finally back in the forecast. We very much need it as the entire DMV is experiencing drought conditions ranging from abnormally dry to an extreme drought in our western counties.

We’re looking ahead to next Tuesday, when an area of low pressure looks to bring much needed rainfall. Keep in mind, we’re talking about a forecast that is five days away, it can change. But we want to give you an early heads up on what we’re watching and break down how it may impact your holiday travel.

An area of low pressure will develop over the Tennessee and Ohio River Valley Monday. Showers look to develop throughout Tuesday morning in the DMV. Rain appears to be light and scattered at the onset.

Rain becomes more widespread and steadier throughout the late morning and early afternoon hours.

The heaviest and steadiest rain arrives in the region around dinner-time Tuesday. If you’re planning to hit the road after work Tuesday plan on delays and wet roads.

Some computer models clear rain out overnight into the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday while others keep showers around a little longer into the morning and afternoon.

The last of the wet weather should clear our shortly after lunchtime Wednesday and the remainder of the day and Thanksgiving look dry.

If you’re heading north, plan on snow in northern New England!

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Two of our more reliable computer models are in agreement that this storm system should bring beneficial rainfall with a widespread 1 – 2″ of rain with locally higher amounts over 2″ possible.

We will fine tune the forecast over the next several days so be sure to check back in!

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