Residents of Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia are preparing for a significant winter storm set to hit the region by Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), snowfall totals could reach up to 6 inches, creating hazardous travel conditions and potential school closures.
What to Expect
The storm is expected to begin late Tuesday night, with steady snowfall continuing into Wednesday morning. By the time the system moves out, many areas across the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) could see between 3 to 6 inches of snow, with localized areas possibly receiving even higher amounts.
Forecasted snowfall estimates for key areas:
- Washington, DC – 3 to 5 inches
- Baltimore, MD – 4 to 6 inches
- Northern Virginia (Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax) – 3 to 5 inches
- Southern Maryland (Charles, Calvert, St. Mary’s counties) – 2 to 4 inches
Temperatures will hover in the low 30s (°F), meaning that wet, heavy snow is likely, which could create additional problems such as downed trees and power outages.
Travel Impacts and Safety Concerns
Officials warn that Wednesday morning’s commute could be severely impacted, with snow-covered roads and reduced visibility making travel dangerous. Major highways, including I-95, I-270, and the Beltway, are expected to see slow-moving traffic and potential accidents as road conditions worsen.
Public transportation may also be affected. The Metro system and bus services in DC, Maryland, and Virginia could experience delays or limited service, depending on the severity of the snowfall.
Air travellers should check with their airlines, as flight delays and cancellations at Reagan National (DCA), Dulles (IAD), and BWI Airport (BWI) are possible.
Preparation Tips for Residents
With heavy snow expected, residents should take the necessary precautions to stay safe:
- Avoid unnecessary travel – If possible, stay off the roads during the height of the storm.
- Prepare emergency kits – Keep extra food, water, flashlights, and batteries in case of power outages.
- Dress warmly – Wind chills could make temperatures feel even colder, so layer up before heading outside.
- Shovel smart – Wet, heavy snow can be difficult to remove, so take breaks while shovelling to avoid strain.
What’s Next?
Meteorologists will continue monitoring the storm’s track, and forecasts may be adjusted based on real-time weather conditions. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through the National Weather Service and local news stations for any changes, including potential school and government office closures.
With up to 6 inches of snow on the way, the DMV is in for a wintery midweek—so get ready to bundle up and prepare for slippery roads and possible disruptions in the days ahead!