The D.C. area recently experienced its first major snowstorm of 2025, leaving behind 6 to 10 inches of snow and prompting the closure of government offices and school districts for two days. As the snowstorm subsided, attention quickly shifted to the potential hazards posed by icy and slick road conditions.
Road safety remains a top concern as the slush left behind by the snowstorm starts to freeze, making driving treacherous. While main roads have largely been cleared, some side streets remained covered in snow as Tuesday morning rolled around. Authorities have been urging residents to stay off the roads if possible to give clearance for snow removal crews to operate effectively.
In response to the wintry weather, Danny King of the Montgomery County Department of Transportation advised, “The best thing to do if you can and don't have to go anywhere, just stay home, and give us the room to work.” Unfortunately, many drivers did venture out, resulting in a flurry of incidents. Maryland State Police reported responding to over 200 crashes and 300 abandoned vehicles during the snowfall on Monday.
Looking ahead, the frigid conditions are forecasted to persist throughout the week, with Storm Team4 predicting strong winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour and sub-freezing windchill temperatures. Additionally, another potential storm looms on the horizon for the upcoming Saturday, adding to the winter weather woes.
As a result of the hazardous conditions, numerous school districts opted to extend closures into Tuesday. In Washington, D.C., D.C. Public Schools, along with various school districts in Virginia cAlexandria City, Arlington County, Fairfax County, Falls Church, Fauquier County, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Stafford Countyc and Maryland cCalvert County, Charles County, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, St. Mary’s Countyc all heeded the caution and remained closed. Frederick County Public Schools announced a two-hour delay.
Despite Metro trains continuing to operate as usual, Metro buses are running on a reduced schedule under a severe snow service plan on Tuesday, cutting down the number of bus routes significantly. Furthermore, hundreds of flights were canceled on Monday at Reagan National Airport, Dulles, and BWI due to the inclement weather conditions.
In anticipation of plummeting temperatures, the risk of water main breaks in the region heightens. Residents are encouraged to take precautions to prevent their home pipes from freezing, especially as the winter weather persists.
The aftermath of the recent snowstorm lingers, leaving a disruption in the normal routine for many residents in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia areas. With school closures, transportation disruptions, and potential future storms on the horizon, staying informed and heeding safety precautions becomes paramount in navigating the winter weather challenges in the region.