Major winter storm threatens D.C. region with heavy snow and ice

The D.C. region is preparing for a significant winter storm this weekend that could bring the heaviest snow in ten years, along with dangerous ice conditions that threaten power outages and make travel treacherous.

A winter storm warning is in effect from Saturday at 11 p.m. through Monday at 4 a.m., with the National Weather Service warning that driving on snowy roads will be "nearly impossible" during the peak of the storm. The system is expected to arrive from the west on Saturday, following a blast of arctic air that moves into the region Friday night.

Background

The D.C. area has been preparing for this weather event for several days as forecasters tracked the approaching system. The storm arrives at a time when the region is already experiencing cold temperatures, setting the stage for accumulating snow rather than rain.

The combination of heavy snow followed by sleet and freezing rain poses multiple hazards to residents and infrastructure. Officials across the region have been coordinating response plans, with schools already announcing closings and delays for Monday. A snow emergency in D.C. goes into effect at noon Saturday and remains in effect through 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, meaning vehicles parked along snow emergency routes will be ticketed and towed.

Key Details

Snow is expected to begin late Saturday and transition to sleet by Sunday midday. Forecasters predict at least 6 inches of snow across much of the region, with northern Virginia and parts of the D.C. area potentially seeing 8 inches or more. Some elevated areas could receive close to a foot of snow, with snow rates expected to increase dramatically during the storm.

After the snow, a transition to sleet and freezing rain will create icy conditions that could persist through much of Sunday. The freezing rain poses a particular threat to power infrastructure, as ice accumulation can weigh down power lines and tree branches, leading to widespread outages.

Power Outage Preparations

Utility company Pepco has mobilized resources to prepare for potential outages. The company is positioning crews near service centers and arranging accommodations so they can respond quickly if power goes out.

"We're getting our trucks ready. We're making sure that our facilities are ready. We're also working on hoteling arrangements to get our crews close to the service center, so that if we should experience outages, our crews are ready to go and we can respond." – Tammy Sanford, director of electric operations for Pepco

Pepco employees will work rotating 12-hour shifts, with the company deploying all available resources. If outages occur, the utility will prioritize those affecting the most customers. The company is urging residents to prepare emergency kits with batteries, food, and fresh drinking water in case power is lost.

Traffic and Travel

The combination of snow, sleet, and ice will make road conditions extremely hazardous. The National Weather Service has warned that travel will be nearly impossible during the height of the storm. School closings and delays are already being announced in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia for Monday as districts prepare for the aftermath of the storm.

What This Means

Residents should finalize preparations immediately. Grocery stores have already seen increased traffic as people stock up on supplies. Those who need to travel should do so before the storm arrives Saturday evening or wait until conditions improve Monday afternoon at the earliest.

Power outages are a significant concern given the expected ice accumulation. Residents should ensure they have flashlights, batteries, blankets, and a supply of non-perishable food and water. Elderly residents and those with medical equipment that requires electricity should have backup plans in place.

Parking restrictions will be strictly enforced during the snow emergency period. Residents should move vehicles off snow emergency routes before noon Saturday to avoid tickets and towing. The restrictions remain in effect through Tuesday morning.

The storm's timing over the weekend means most businesses will be closed during the worst conditions, but the impacts will likely extend into the work week. Many employers have already indicated they will allow remote work on Monday, and additional closings may be announced as the storm progresses.

Utility officials stress that outage restoration will take time given the expected severity of the storm. Residents should not assume power will be restored quickly if their area loses electricity. Keeping the Pepco app updated and reporting outages will help the utility prioritize restoration efforts.