Weather

UPDATE: Messy morning commute now unlikely, forecasters say

Ice on tree branches (Flickr pool photo by Dennis Dimick)

Update at 3:10 p.m. — The ice threat has diminished, according to the National Weather Service:

…WINTER COMMUTING HAZARD STATEMENT IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT…

The threat of accumulating ice from light freezing rain and freezing drizzle has diminished and dry conditions are expected for the Monday morning commute.

Earlier: Forecasters are giving the D.C. area a heads up that Monday morning’s commute could be a doozy.

While odds are it will just be overcast and cold, there’s also a 30% chance of freezing drizzle, which would make roads very slippery and lead to crashes and significant disruptions.

Local residents are being advised to monitor the forecast and the weather conditions before heading out in the morning.

More from the National Weather Service:

…POTENTIAL WINTER COMMUTING HAZARD FOR THE BALTIMORE / WASHINGTON METRO AREAS MONDAY MORNING…

There is a potential for hazardous commuting conditions for the Monday morning commute. A period of freezing drizzle is POSSIBLE (a 30 percent chance) Monday morning across the Baltimore / Washington metro areas, primarily east of Interstate 95, with a light glaze possible on area roads.

If this threat does materialize during the Monday morning rush- hour, many roads could quickly turn icy. This could lead to dangerous traveling conditions, multiple accidents, and extensive delays.

If commuting Monday morning, be aware of the POSSIBILITY of significant travel disruptions. Plan ahead by allowing for extra travel time, and consider using public transportation and telework options.

Stay tuned for updates on this potential winter weather episode.