The National Weather Service is warning of the potential for lightly accumulating snowfall tonight.
Luckily, the snow is not expected to start until well after rush hour — we all remember what happened the last time a light snowfall caught the region by surprise during the evening commute.
Regardless of the timing, it may be a good idea to stay off the roads during this first (potential) snow of the season.
From NWS:
Special Weather Statement…UPDATED
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
1110 AM EST Wed Dec 14 2016…POTENTIAL FOR LIGHT SNOW ACCUMULATION IN THE WASHINGTON AND
BALTIMORE METROPOLITAN AREAS LATE THIS EVENING AND OVERNIGHT…Snow showers are possible late this evening into the overnight across the Washington and Baltimore Metropolitan areas. Snow may coat the ground in some locations… and with temperatures near freezing this may cause slippery conditions. The best chance for snow will be between 10 PM and 2 AM late this evening into the overnight.
Update at 1:10 p.m. — VDOT says it is preparing for wintry weather tonight.
Crews are taking advantage of conditions today and Thursday to treat roads with anti-icing materials in northern Virginia, in anticipation of low temperatures through the rest of week and the potential for wintry precipitation over the weekend.
Throughout Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William and Arlington* counties (*Arlington maintains own secondary roads) crews treat about 5,200 lane miles with liquid magnesium chloride or brine in advance of winter weather. This includes interstate, primary and high-volume secondary road roads, particularly ramps, bridges, and other critical areas prone to freezing.
The Virginia Department of Transportation asks drivers to keep an eye on the forecast for freezing conditions and precipitation. Before venturing out this weekend, VDOT reminds drivers to fill their gas tanks, slow down, to be aware of potential slick spots such as shaded areas and bridges, and to use the following resources:
- Check http://www.511virginia.org/ or the 511 mobile app before you go for traffic conditions and lane closures
- Follow @VaDOTNOVA on Twitter
- Visit www.virginiadot.org/ novaemergency for the latest updates and resources from VDOT in northern Virginia
- Get more details on snow removal in northern Virginia
This is also the perfect time to place or update an emergency kit in your car. Recommended items include:
- Water and food
- Shovel
- Ice scraper/brush
- Gloves and boots
- Phone charger
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Flares
- Ice melt/cat litter
More information at: www.ready.gov/car