The latest: DC-area’s first snowstorm of 2026

A colossal winter storm could bring significant snow and icy conditions over the weekend in the D.C. area, where preparations have been underway for several days as the region braces for what could be the biggest snow storm in 10 years.

Stay with WTOP for the latest forecast, traffic reports and school closings during the first snowstorm of the year.



DC region braces for bitter cold, heavy snow, ice

A weekend full of winter weather is kicking off in the D.C. region with a blast of arctic air starting Friday night, which will be followed by a massive snowstorm approaching from the west and arriving Saturday.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the D.C. region beginning Saturday at 11 p.m. and lasting through Monday at 4 a.m.

During the winter storm warning, the weather service said driving on snowy roads will be “nearly impossible” and ice could knock out power or damage trees.

Read the full winter forecast.

Guess how much snow will fall, win a prize

A snow gauge in the snow

How many inches will we get? That’s the question on everyone’s mind and WTOP is taking your best prediction!

Enter WTOP’s Snowzilla 2026 Contest for a chance to win Dave Dildine’s “Snowzilla Gauge.”

Guess the snow total expected at Reagan National Airport as recorded by the National Weather Service this weekend, from Saturday, Jan. 24 through Monday, Jan. 26, and you could win WTOP Traffic reporter and weather enthusiast Dave Dildine’s own handmade “Snowzilla Gauge” — signed by the man himself.

Here’s how to enter.

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