Snowstorm watch: What DMV residents should know

Driving the news: A massive winter storm could be a record-maker for the Baltimore-Washington region, with potential double-digit snowfall, ice and dangerous cold.

• The Capital Weather Gang predicts 5 to 10 inches of snow around the Beltway, Saturday evening through Monday — plus ice.
• Frigid temperatures before, during and after the storm could mean snow and ice will accumulate quickly, and linger for days.
• The National Weather Service upgraded the region to an "extreme" winter storm risk, its highest level.

Threat level: High for icy conditions and treacherous roads.

• CapWeather warns snow could accumulate most heavily early Sunday through midday, followed by sleet and ice — a worst-case scenario for driving.

🥶 What's next: Bitter cold will likely linger into next week, with highs mostly in the 20s and wind chills near or below zero at times.

Zoom in: Officials urge residents to prep before Saturday afternoon:

• Stock up on essentials for several days (food, meds, pet supplies).
• Gather tools: shovels, salt, car brushes, batteries.
• Prep for possible power outages with flashlights, blankets and shelf-stable food.
• Fill up that gas tank.

The intrigue: In D.C., residents are required to shovel their own sidewalks — or risk fines and shovel shaming.

• The city is encouraging able-bodied residents to become "Snow Team Heroes" and help shovel for elderly or disabled neighbors.

☃️ Between the lines: It's not all doom and ice.

• Dust off the sled: Capitol Hill sledding is open this time (it was closed last January for inauguration).
• The DC Snowball Fight Association (yes, really) is gearing up for snow-down on Sunday (location TBA).
• Expect food and drink specials at local bars and restaurants (ETA "Snow Day Eve" aka Friday).

🔥 And you don't need snow to grab a warm drink by a fire — but it sure helps the vibe.