Scattered showers for St. Patrick’s Day

A showery St. Patrick’s Day is in store for the Washington metropolitan region, with meteorologists forecasting a high probability of scattered precipitation.

As an area of low pressure develops over the Mid-Atlantic region, high humidity levels will be accompanied by a few showers, particularly during the afternoon hours. While a quarter-inch of rain is possible, accumulations are expected to remain light.

The National Weather Service is predicting a 70 percent chance of showers, with the highest probabilities for precipitation occurring between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Temperatures should reach a high of 55 degrees, but with the onset of showers, readings are expected to dip into the mid- to upper-forties.

As a result of the inclement conditions, motorists should exercise caution, as wet roads can lead to hydroplaning and reduced visibility.

With the potential for showers, March 2020 will join a distinguished list of wettest St. Patrick’s Days. Since 2000, the highest rain total was recorded in 2017, when 0.90 of an inch fell. The least amount of rain was observed in 2004, when only a trace was recorded.

For those seeking reprieve from the wet weather, a dry period is expected to occur early in the day. There is a 30 percent chance of rain before noon, so if you are hoping to venture outdoors, it would be advisable to do so before the afternoon.