Get Ready for Snow-Induced Headaches on Upcoming Commutes

It’s January, and it appears the inevitable is about to arrive. Snow is finally ready to hamper our commutes.

Rush-hour drives this evening and Friday morning are likely to get a little dicey thanks to winter weather. The Virginia Department of Transportation says anti-icing action began Wednesday, and the telltale lines are evident on streets and highways throughout the area.

VDOT says more than 1,100 pieces of equipment were being stages on area roadways this afternoon in preparation for the snow’s onset. Crews are expected to treat roads with salt and sand once the snow starts to fall. Workers are scheduled to remain on duty throughout the course of the storm, plowing in areas that see 2 inches of snow or more.

Area forecasters seem to be in agreement that the biggest impact of this weather event will be felt to the north and west of Fairfax County.

Models pretty consistent in predicting dusting south to 1-2" north across DC area tonight. More info: https://t.co/saWmGl5JNk pic.twitter.com/FmWDY8rd5J

— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) January 5, 2017

Coating to 1" around #DC -some isolated spots NW of 2.00". Travel overnight could be difficult. Delays likely Fri AM pic.twitter.com/8G9Maj7TtO

— Lauryn Ricketts (@laurynricketts) January 5, 2017

Stay wx aware today, as the 1st accum. snow this season is expected.Remember even light amts of snow can cause hazardous driving conditions! pic.twitter.com/PlaH8jJrPi

— NWS DC/Baltimore (@NWS_BaltWash) January 5, 2017

As warned by the National Weather Service in the above tweet, even a small amount of snow can cause a major disruption to driving conditions. VDOT urges drivers to adjust their commutes to account for additional travel time and avoid driving during the storm. In addition, drivers are being asked to:

• Not overdrive conditions
• Reduce speeds and use headlights
• Take it slow on bridges, ramps, overpasses and other potential trouble spots
• Ensure cars are filled with gas and windshield wiper fluid
• Take time to update their cars’ emergency kits

Fairfax County Schools are also closely monitoring the situation, and Thursday evening activities have been canceled.

FCPS Evening Activities Canceled due to forecast freezing road conditions facilities and school grounds will be closed starting at 6:15 p.m

— Fairfax Schools (@fcpsnews) January 5, 2017

The school district offers apps and text alerts to keep parents informed about school announcements, including weather-related delays and closings.