The D.C. region is under a winter storm warning through early Tuesday morning as the area sees its biggest snowstorm in years.
The National Weather Service said snowfall rates may reach 1-3 inches per hour, especially in the early-morning hours Monday.
“Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations between 5 and 9 inches, with amounts of 10 to 12 inches possible in isolated spots if heavy banding sets up in this area,” the weather service said in its warning. “Ice accumulations of a trace possible near Interstate 66.”
The watch is in effect from until 1 a.m. Tuesday and includes Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Stafford, Fauquier and Culpeper.
Puppy in a snow squall in Northern Virginia on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025. Photo by reader Adrian Willing
Federal and local government offices and schools are all closed Monday, extending winter break for students who were set to return this week.
State of emergency
Gov. Glenn Youngkin on Friday night declared a state of emergency for Virginia ahead of the storm and urged motorists to stay off the roads.
The governor’s declaration followed a quick Friday afternoon band of snow showers and squalls, with “thundersnow” reported across Northern Virginia. Accumulations were light and there were no major accidents reported.
“Given the current projected size of the storm, if your post-holiday travel plans have you leaving Sunday, I encourage you to adjust those plans to leave on Saturday,” the governor said in a statement. “If you find yourself needing to be on the roadways, please heed any warnings and make sure you are keeping yourselves and others safe.”
He said pre-treating preparations were underway and “substantial state and local resources will continue to actively monitor the forecast and respond through the weekend.
The storm looms days after the anniversary of the Jan. 3, 2022 winter storm that left thousands across Virginia without power and shut down a 50-mile stretch of Interstate 95 for more than 36 hours.