* SERIOUS severe storm POTENTIAL on Monday * The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has placed the area in a level 3 out of 5 risk zone for severe storms on Monday, which is an unusually high level for our region this many days in advance. The exact timing of storms is still to be determined but any time between early afternoon and around sunset is possible. The storms should move through rather quickly but could pack a dangerous punch. An unusually intense cold front will be passing through and storms along and ahead of it could produce damaging wind gusts, hail and even tornadoes. As is often the case with potential thunderstorm events, exactly how widespread severe storms are and the places that will get hit hardest are difficult to pinpoint. There’s some possibility the storms don’t reach their potential if clouds and cool air linger on Monday, reducing available energy. The Weather Service is urging residents carefully monitor forecasts and be prepared for a significant outbreak of severe weather.

4:49 p.m. — Much of area changing to snow As temperatures settle into the low and mid-30s and precipitation continues, much of it is changing to snow. Snow is most consistent where bands are heaviest, which has lately been both west and east of D.C. As the atmosphere cools off further with sunset, and thanks to the storm developing offshore, the transition should complete everywhere shortly. For the next several hours, most places will see persistent moderate snow. Some zones of heavy activity will also be embedded. Accumulation starts on grassy surfaces and cars but progresses more to roads with sunset, and slick spots will become more numerous, especially after 5:30-6 p.m. By around 7 or 8 p.m., the snow zone will likely shrink, especially out west to start. A concentrated and heavier north to south oriented band may continue going over parts of the D.C. area, including the Beltway, at least into the early overnight.