Heavy Rain and Winds Expected in D.C. Region on Halloween

Washington, D.C. — A soaking rain is expected to sweep into the D.C. region Thursday, bringing with it heavy downpours, gusty winds, and a chance of isolated thunderstorms. The arrival of a powerful weather system from the south and west is the cause of these conditions.

While forecasters indicate that the severe threat remains low, the combination of gusty winds and lightning may result in downed tree limbs and power outages across some areas. The primary concern is rainfall, with estimates predicting one to two inches before the system moves out later in the day. This can lead to ponding on roads and increases in water levels in creeks and low-lying areas during morning and afternoon commutes.

Drivers are urged to exercise caution on slick roads and avoid flooded crossings. The rain will provide necessary relief to parts of the region that are experiencing drought conditions. After the rain subsides, forecasters anticipate that skies will clear up later Thursday night.

Mark Peña, a meteorologist with 7News First, stated, “This system will give us some much-needed rain before clearing out later today. We’ll see gusty winds tonight, but it should be calm and dry for trick-or-treaters.”

As the storm progresses throughout the day, high temperatures are expected to reach between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, with southeast winds between 10 and 20 miles per hour, and gusts reaching 25 to 30 mph. The weather is anticipated to ease as evening approaches, leading to a drier and cooler weekend.

On Friday, Halloween, expect a partly cloudy and windy day with highs in the low 60s, and westerly winds gusting over 30 mph. Saturday will see highs near 60 with scattered clouds, while Sunday is projected to be mostly sunny with highs from the mid-50s to around 60 degrees. Additionally, daylight saving time will end early Sunday morning, resulting in an earlier sunrise and sunset.