Washington DC: A surge of arctic air followed by a powerful winter storm is set to blanket the Washington DC region this weekend, prompting emergency declarations and warnings of dangerous travel and life-threatening cold.
Mayor Muriel Bowser said the storm could deliver the heaviest snowfall the city has seen in years, with at least 9 inches expected and the potential for totals to exceed a foot. The mayor declared both a snow emergency and a local state of emergency, and requested assistance from the District of Columbia National Guard to help keep roads clear for first responders.
“Get prepared and be prepared,” Bowser said, urging residents to stay indoors as conditions deteriorate. City crews are moving people into shelters, and officials said there is capacity for anyone who needs it. “These are seriously dangerous conditions for people to be outside,” Bowser said.
Residents who encounter people seeking shelter can call 311 or the city’s shelter hotline at 202-399-7093.
The heaviest snowfall is expected late Saturday night into Sunday morning, according to city officials. Extreme cold is forecast to linger into next week.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the region from 11 p.m. Saturday through 4 a.m. Monday. Forecasters said travel during that time could be “nearly impossible,” with snow and ice capable of downing trees and knocking out power.
Total snow and sleet accumulations of 7 to 14 inches are possible across the region, with ice buildup of up to two-tenths of an inch. Snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour at times.
WTOP meteorologist Mike Stinneford said most of the region is unlikely to see snow before sunset Saturday. Updated forecasts suggest snow may mix with sleet and freezing rain on Sunday, which could limit total snow accumulation.
“The biggest risk of freezing rain will be east of Interstate 95 and over the far southern suburbs,” Stinneford said, adding that areas north and west of the city are likely to see the highest snow totals. “This is a dynamic forecast.”
District officials urged residents to charge electronic devices, prepare flashlights and batteries, avoid last-minute grocery trips, and make plans to check on family members and neighbors during the storm.
D.C. public schools are already closed Monday under the regular academic calendar. Any additional closures will be announced as conditions warrant, officials said.
