Light snow on track for Friday afternoon and evening

Friday snow potential forecast, second call.Examining the latest computer model data this evening, our general ideas about Friday’s snow have not changed. The best bet is around 1 inch of sweepable light snow, coinciding with the afternoon rush hour.

Here are some key points:

* Start time is most likely mid-to-late afternoon, between 2 and 5 p.m.

* Snow intensity should mainly be light, but some moderate bursts are possible, reducing visibilities.

* Given temperatures in the 20s, snow falling will stick to untreated roads and will aggravate the PM commute. Leave early if possible.

* This is not Commutageddon. Snow will not be crippling and heavy snow is not likely.

* The mountains will rob this storm system of some of its moisture and snow may be spotty and/or slow to get started particularly in the D.C. metro area and Virginia piedmont (D.C. snow hole).

* There are scenarios for more or less snow. 1) As little as a dusting if less moisture makes it across the mountains than forecast. 2) If the storm is a bit juicier, given the fluffy nature of the snow, it wouldn’t take much to get 2 inches or a little more.

* This is a fast moving storm. Snow should fairly quickly wind down between 7 and 10 p.m.

We will have more details and updates tomorrow.