Cold front brings gusty winds, downpours, falling temperatures to D.C. area - The Washington Post

* Wind advisory tonight through 4 a.m.*

On a day like this, it's easy to tell spring isn't far away. Gusty south and southwest winds have pumped humid air into the area as temperatures have risen through the 60s ahead of a cold front. That front passes this evening and is expected to bring scattered to numerous showers and storms, some of which could be intense. Temperatures are expected to then fall sharply tonight as winds from the northwest usher in a fleeting taste of chilly weather for the last day of meteorological winter (Feb. 29).

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Through tonight: Showers and some thunderstorms will increase in coverage the rest of the afternoon. The strongest of showers and storms probably will happen between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., from west to east, and perhaps include an organized line containing heavy downpours in the back half of that window. Any heavier activity could also produce wind gusts approaching 50 mph. Rainfall totals will probably be rather variable, but most spots should see about 0.25 to 0.5 inches, with a few areas getting an inch. The rain should end by late evening, with skies clearing out a bit overnight.

Winds will probably be strongest, gusting to over 40 mph, as the cold front passes early this evening — between about 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. — and in the hours immediately following. After midnight, winds should slowly ease.

It's forecast to turn much colder as the front passes. Temperatures could drop about 20 degrees between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. — from the 60s to the 40s. Lows should range from the upper 20s to lower 30s most spots just before sunrise. And it will feel about 10 degrees lower than that, factoring in the wind.

Tomorrow (Thursday): Our final day of meteorological winter will feel the part, more or less. There could even be a patch or two of ice from any standing water that freezes overnight. Eventually, the strong late-February sun should help offset the chill, but it will still be cool, particularly in the shade. Highs are forecast to range from the mid-40s to near 50, which is a bit below average. Winds should still be gusty but less so over time.

See Dan Stillman's forecast through the weekend. And if you haven't already, join us on Facebook and follow us on X and Instagram. For related traffic news, check out Gridlock.

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