Freezing rain fell upon the D.C. area for most of Thursday, and ski resorts to the north and west were not sheltered from the mixed precipitation. The adverse weather conditions have led to icy slopes at many ski areas, but local resorts are hoping warmer weather and aggressive grooming will get the slopes in better condition for the upcoming three-day weekend.

Although resorts in West Virginia managed to avoid some of the worst weather, other resorts closer to D.C. were not so lucky. For example, Pennsylvania’s Ski Roundtop delayed its opening on Thursday due to ice buildup on lift equipment. “Frozen granular” slopes on Thursday were mostly empty, as few skiers and boarders braved treacherous roads to get to the resorts. Throughout the day, a mixture of snow, sleet, and freezing rain fell north and west of D.C. Although main roads have been treated, many side roads are icy.

Mixed precipitation should end Friday morning, with temperatures gradually warming. By Saturday, skies will be mostly cloudly with temperatures climbing into the upper 40’s. Temperatures should reach the lower 50’s by Sunday; some rain showers are possible on Monday.

The warmer temperatures this weekend should drastically improve conditions at area resorts. Coupled with grooming and possibly some nighttime snowmaking, snow conditions should change over to loose granular. Icy patches may be present in the early morning and as temperatures fall in the evening. Thanks to a long stretch of colder temperatures, area resorts have been able to build up a healthy base depth.