Winter Storm Warning Grips DC Region: 10 Inches of Snow, Ice Loom for Weekend

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Heavy Snow Kicks Off Late Saturday

The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning effective from late Saturday through early Monday, predicting accumulations of 5 to 10 inches across most locations.[1][2]

Snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour during peak periods Sunday morning, starting as early as 8 p.m. Saturday in some spots.[1]

WTOP meteorologist Mike Stinneford noted that initial flakes would bring light, fluffy powder, building to several inches by Sunday dawn. Areas north and west of the city stood to receive the highest totals, potentially exceeding 12 inches.[1]

However, a shift loomed later in the day. Warmer air aloft threatened to introduce sleet and freezing rain by afternoon, capping snow deeper south and east.[2]

Freezing Rain Raises Alarm for Ice and Outages

Freezing rain posed the greatest hazard Sunday evening, with accumulations of up to a quarter-inch possible on roads, trees, and power lines.[1]

Such icing could snap branches and disrupt electricity, especially east of Interstate 95 and in southern suburbs. Stinneford highlighted the dynamic nature of the forecast, where sleet might dominate before any glaze forms.[2]

Temperatures remained unforgiving, with Sunday highs in the mid-20s and wind chills dipping into the teens. Arctic air locked in the cold, slowing melt and prolonging slick conditions into the week.[1]

Forecasters compared the event to rare high-impact storms, marking the region’s first major snowfall in a decade.

States of Emergency Activate Full Response

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, and Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger declared emergencies to unlock aid and personnel. Maryland alone deployed 160 National Guard troops for support.[3]

Road crews pretreated thousands of lane miles. Virginia Department of Transportation’s Alex Liggett reported over 14,000 miles covered, urging drivers to stay off roads once precipitation began. “Do not travel once snow begins,” he emphasized.[1]

In D.C., the Department of Public Works readied extra plows and salted alleys. Enforcement on snow emergency routes started at noon Saturday, with towing possible.[1]

Snowplows staged across Northern Virginia for multiday operations
Warming centers opened at D.C. recreation facilities
National Guard vehicles assisted vulnerable neighborhoods
Residents advised to clear sidewalks and check on neighbors

Travel Disruptions and Safety Measures Dominate Preparations

Officials anticipated hazardous driving, with plowing prioritized by major routes. Neighborhood streets might wait days for full clearance.[1]

Moore warned of statewide impacts in Maryland, stressing supplies like food, water, and blankets for any essential trips. Generators required outdoor use to prevent carbon monoxide dangers.[3]

Shoppers stocked up amid reports of the largest storm prep in years. Utilities positioned crews for outage response, eyeing ice-laden lines.

Key Takeaways
Expect 5-10 inches snow metro-wide; higher north, ice south
Stay home during heaviest bands Saturday night to Sunday
Monitor updates as mix of precip evolves

This storm tested the region’s readiness after years of mild winters. With cold air lingering, safety demanded vigilance through next week. What are your storm prep plans? Share in the comments.

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