Update at 8:25 p.m. — Fairfax County Public Schools will be closed Wednesday.
Falling temperatures are expected to create hazardous travel conditions overnight and tomorrow, especially on secondary roads in various parts of the county. As a result, all Fairfax County public schools and offices will be closed Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2019 (Cond. 1).
— Fairfax Schools (@fcpsnews) January 30, 2019
Snow accumulation is expected to lessen overnight and the temperature is going to drop. Ice will form on the roadways making driving conditions dangerous. Avoid driving if possible. If you do drive, reduce speeds and stay alert! Ice is difficult to spot. #FCPD pic.twitter.com/PZV6cOTkA8
— Fairfax County Police (@FairfaxCountyPD) January 30, 2019
Earlier: Traffic is already starting to back up as commuters head home early to beat expected icy roads from today’s rain and snow.
Traffic is heavy heading westbound on the Dulles Toll Road, according to Google Maps, and drivers should also expect scattered heavy traffic on the Reston Parkway and other primary roads around the area.
A Winter Weather Advisory is currently in effect. Forecasters are warning commuters to be aware of potential travel disruptions and allow for extra time getting back in the evening. Additional problems on the roads are possible Wednesday morning.
From the National Weather Service:
WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT EST TONIGHT…
* WHAT…Snow, mixed with rain before 5 PM, will turn to all snow by 5 PM this afternoon, and continue through the evening rush before ending between 7 and 9 PM this evening. Total snowfall accumulation around one inch is expected.
* WHERE…Arlington and Fairfax Counties in Virginia, the District of Columbia and its southern and eastern suburbs.
* WHEN…Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until midnight EST tonight.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Plan on slippery road conditions. Temperatures will fall below freezing during the evening rush, causing the potential for wet or slushy surfaces to freeze.
Classes and activities at the Reston Community Center are canceled after 3 p.m. today, and RCC facilities are set to close by 5 p.m. The Reston Association offices also closed at 3 p.m.
Fairfax County public schools closed two hours early today.
Flakes started in the Reston area earlier this afternoon. As of 4 p.m., some local roads were becoming snow-covered.
Looking beautiful in Reston @fox5dc @fox5weather @Reston! ❄️❄️❄️ pic.twitter.com/ENzGSjangc
— Matt Bianco (@BiancoMSB) January 29, 2019
While drivers may not be enjoying the weather right now, at least one furry local is.
@MikeTFox5 Snowing on my pupper here in Reston! @TuckerFox5 @fox5dc pic.twitter.com/an6P8yLmIH
— Brandon R. Huffman (@BranRob79) January 29, 2019
Images via Google Maps and Virginia Department of Transportation
The county’s public schools and offices are set to close two hours early on Tuesday (Jan. 29) as incoming wintery weather may create hazardous road conditions.
Fairfax County Public Schools tweeted shortly after 5 p.m. today (Jan. 28) that the decision is “due to the anticipated snow and freezing rain in the forecast tomorrow afternoon and evening, and the possibility of deteriorating travel conditions.”
The National Weather Service said an abrupt transition from rain to about 1 to 3 inches of snow could likely create poor driving conditions.
Commuters are encouraged to be aware of potential travel disruptions and allow for extra time getting back in the evening.
Due to the anticipated snow and freezing rain in the forecast tomorrow afternoon and evening, and the possibility of deteriorating travel conditions, all Fairfax County public schools and offices will close two hours early Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019 (Cond 4). https://t.co/zNBBMjWGwr
— Fairfax Schools (@fcpsnews) January 28, 2019
File photo
Rain and snow are slated to hit Fairfax County tomorrow, possibly making roads slick from sudden weather changes.
The National Weather Service recently posted a Winter Weather Advisory at 2:58 p.m. today for Fairfax County and nearby areas beginning tomorrow.
NWS expects rain and snow late in the afternoon and early evening on Tuesday (Jan. 29). NWS anticipates about 1 to 3 inches of snow, with the abrupt transition from rain to snow creating poor driving conditions.
Commuters are encouraged to be aware of potential travel disruptions and allow for extra time getting back in the evening.
The advisory says the following:
WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 10 PM EST
TUESDAY…* WHAT…Any rain will change to snow during the afternoon hours.
Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches expected.* WHERE…Portions of central and northern Maryland and northern
Virginia.* WHEN…From noon to 10 PM EST Tuesday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The
hazardous conditions will impact the evening commute.
Temperatures will fall well below freezing during the evening,
causing any moisture or slush to freeze on untreated surfaces.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Expect snow covered roads
and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1
From @NWS_BaltWash: If you plan on commuting Tuesday evening, be aware of the potential for travel disruptions. Plan ahead by allowing for extra travel time, and consider using public transportation and telework options. More details: https://t.co/zZL89SPjAy pic.twitter.com/3EfguqmsRi
— Fairfax County Government (@fairfaxcounty) January 28, 2019
Be prepared for an impacted Tues PM commute. Snow is forecast to hit around that time. Be aware that temps will drop (freezing) and the winds will pick up. Pls plan to leave work or be home a little early. Clear the roads so we can clear the roads. #teamwork pic.twitter.com/TuDjXbw29S
— VDOT Northern VA (@VaDOTNOVA) January 28, 2019
File photo
With an inch of snow anticipated tonight and tomorrow, activities at Fairfax County public schools or on school grounds are canceled for this afternoon and evening.
FCPS wrote in a tweet today (Jan. 17) that the “expected wintry weather in our area tonight” prompted the decision.
The School Age Child Care Program will remain open until 6:15 p.m. tonight.
Due to the expected wintry weather in our area later today, all activities scheduled in Fairfax County public schools or on school grounds for this afternoon and evening, Jan. 17, are canceled (Cond 6) https://t.co/zNBBMkehnZ
SACC centers will remain open until 6:15 p.m.— Fairfax Schools (@fcpsnews) January 17, 2019
File photo
Get ready for more snow.
The National Weather Service recently posted a winter weather advisory for the D.C.-area, including Fairfax County, from 6 p.m. tonight (Jan. 17) to 4 a.m. on Friday.
NWS expects around 1 inch of snow accumulation.
The advisory says the following:
Plan on slippery road conditions and
sidewalks. The hazardous conditions could impact the evening
commute after sunset as temperatures fall below freezing.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Expect snow covered roads
and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
The Virginia Department of Transportation is asking drivers to closely monitor forecasts for potential snow and ice impacting rush hours tonight and tomorrow, according to a “snow update” email this morning.
VDOT wrote that crews are staging along roads throughout the day to be ready for rush hour and have touched up pretreatment on areas prone to freezing, such as bridges, ramps and overpasses. They will also continue to work overnight to treat for icy conditions.
RT @NWS_BaltWash: Accumulating snow is expected late today and overnight. Winter Weather Advisories have been expanded over the DC and Baltimore metro areas. Be prepared for hazardous driving conditions. pic.twitter.com/U64T7TE46f
— Fairfax County Government (@fairfaxcounty) January 17, 2019
MT @VaDOTNOVA: Crews will be staged ahead of rush hour for snow during today’s PM commute. Pls leave work early (yay!) if you can. Storms during rush hour have a huge impact on the roads. Also watch for overnight freeze for tomorrow’s AM rush. 🥶❄️ pic.twitter.com/h9QIHoXLXb
— Fairfax County Government 🇺🇸 (@fairfaxcounty) January 17, 2019
Photo via Robbie Nolan/Twitter
Restaurant Week starts today — Four restaurants in Reston will be serving up dishes for Winter Restaurant Week, which runs from today until Sunday (Jan. 20). [Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington]
Walmart is increasing tech jobs — In a battle with Amazon’s market share, the retailer announced it will add 2,000 tech hires this year. The expansion is likely to affect the Sunnyvale, Calif. and Reston offices. [Fortune]
Snow, snow, snow — Fairfax County Public Schools are closed today. ICYMI: Reston Now had weekend coverage of the snowiest D.C. area storm since 2016. [Reston Now]
Update at 5:35 p.m. — Treacherous conditions have been reported on local roads as steady snow continues to fall.
The sun has gone down and the moon has come up… temps and visibility are continuing to drop. Pls stay off the roads tonight, but plan now for your commute tmrw. Telework or delay trips until the sun rises and temperatures increase. Roads will be slippery. #safetyalways pic.twitter.com/QKvP9byVc7
— VDOT Northern VA (@VaDOTNOVA) January 13, 2019
Update at 4 p.m. — Fairfax County Public Schools will be closed Monday, the school system announced late Sunday afternoon.
All Fairfax County public schools will be closed Mon. Jan. 14, 2019, due to the snow and hazardous travel conditions. School offices and central offices will open 2 hours late, to be opened by 10:00 a.m. (Cond 5) with an unscheduled leave policy in effect for 12-month employees.
— Fairfax Schools (@fcpsnews) January 13, 2019
Earlier: Snow is still falling on Reston, which has seen more than 7 inches of accumulation in what is now the snowiest D.C. area storm since 2016.
Another inch or two is possible before the storm winds down tonight, forecasters say.
VDOT crews have been working hard to clear roads throughout Fairfax County, but officials are still urging residents to stay home due to slick conditions.
Earlier this afternoon Virginia State Police said troopers in its Fairfax Division have responded to 34 crashes and 52 disabled vehicles since midnight. Statewide, more than 230 crashes were handled by VSP during that timeframe.
“Drivers be advised — looks can be and are deceiving!” state police said. “Highways may appear to be clear, but slick and icy conditions still exist.”
“On the second day of winter weather across northern Virginia, drivers are asked to continue to avoid unnecessary travel for crews to safely clear accumulating snow,” VDOT urged.
Two important things to remember if you must travel:
1) make sure you've removed all the snow from your windows so you can see (and don't forget the snow on top of your car, too!)
2) use your headlights so others can see you— VDOT (@VaDOT) January 13, 2019
As of 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Fairfax County Public Schools had not yet announced whether schools will be open Monday. Arlington and Alexandria, meanwhile, have both announced that schools will be closed tomorrow.
More scenes from around Reston and Herndon, via social media:
10:30 am in Reston. The lake is partially frozen over, and the snow is still falling lightly. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/cTevUHGFvE
— diane (@dianemmh) January 13, 2019
First snow of the year! Thank you @RestonOnline for clearing the paths! ⛄️ #Reston #snurlough pic.twitter.com/7h3Qp9Y2ji
— Joie (@fiosrach1) January 13, 2019
Current snow count in Reston – 10 cupcakes deep…and yes @alexanderjimmy they're chocolate bourbon 🥃🍫#snow #snowday #snowstickchallenge #snowpocalypse2019 @capitalweather @dougkammerer @nbcwashington @fairfaxcounty pic.twitter.com/IYhY72X1Lt
— ℂ𝕒𝕗𝕗𝕖𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕕 ❤ ☕ (@rhinasmith) January 13, 2019
@nbcwashington #snowstickchallenge Schooner rocking his new snow parka in Reston, VA pic.twitter.com/8Gv6k9COSL
— Mary Ann Walsh (@walshma1) January 13, 2019
4.5" in south Reston, VA. Main roads plowed but still not in good shape, slick. Dog refuses to come back in @capitalweather @RestonNow @amelia_draper @WXStormGeek @nbcwashington @ABC7News pic.twitter.com/WwohV85BD1
— Douglas H. Errett (@MrErrett) January 13, 2019
5.5” snow total in Herndon, VA (using iPhone augmented reality Measure app). pic.twitter.com/TEQZH8RELS
— Pandus R Us (@pandusRus) January 13, 2019
Current status, still snowing hard in Reston, VA @capitalweather @RestonNow @amelia_draper @TenaciousTopper pic.twitter.com/639KN4Hobf
— Douglas H. Errett (@MrErrett) January 13, 2019
Updated at 4:45 p.m. — Includes information from Fairfax County Public Schools.
Fairfax County is reminding locals of winter safety tips as the first snowfall of the year is anticipated to appear this weekend.
The National Weather Service forecast expects 3 to 4 inches, with snow moving into the area most likely after 1 p.m. on Saturday (Jan. 12) afternoon. By nightfall, about half of an inch will probably be on the ground, a Fairfax County Emergency Information post says.
Locals can expect temperatures tomorrow in the low to mid-30s with calm winds. Overnight, a steadier snowfall is expected to bring another 2 to 4 inches with temperatures in the upper 20s with a light wind of 5 miles per hour.
On Sunday (Jan. 13), snow should continue and then taper off by around 1 p.m. with temperatures in the low to mid-30s again. Winds may reach 5 to 8 mph. Additional snow showers on Sunday evening may occur, but aren’t expected to add to the accumulation.
In a video posted today (Jan. 11), Courtney Arroyo from the county’s Emergency Management Office urges residents to prepare by imagining the worst case scenario.
Her advice includes:
- making a communications plan including out of town contacts
- having alternative plans for work, daycare and elder care
- stocking up on items to survive at home for up to 72 hours, including nonperishable food, water, medications and any supplies for pets and children
- staying off of the roads
“Don’t get blindsided,” she says.
Meanwhile, Fairfax County Public Schools tweeted that all activities scheduled in Fairfax County public schools and school grounds are canceled beginning at 5 p.m. on Saturday and all day Sunday.
Happy Friday! With snow predicted for our region in the coming days, here are a few winter weather reminders as we head into the weekend: https://t.co/SmzA17v5Go @ReadyFairfax @fairfaxcounty @ffxconnector @VaDOTNOVA pic.twitter.com/stuHNqPukB
— Sharon Bulova (@SharonBulova) January 11, 2019
NEW: Winter weather advisory issued for immediate DC area for the weekend snow. Winter storm warning south of Fairfax County. Update: https://t.co/Ezc0aOOFDQ pic.twitter.com/XSCnhW2XDj
— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) January 11, 2019
Photo via Charlotte Geary
This story has been updated
It’s the first day of winter — The odds are slim for a snowy Christmas but rain later next week and then a major blizzard may be on the horizon. [Reston Patch]
Drumroll for USA Today’s “Best Holiday Parade” rankings — At noon USA Today will unveil where Reston’s holiday parade fell on this year’s rankings, which are decided by voters. For memories, check out the video below from the Reston Association. [USA Today]
Assistant children’s librarian closes one chapter in her life — Marcia Wine, 71, retired in mid-November from her job at the Reston Regional Public Library. [Reston Connection]
People read these books the most in 2018 — Fairfax County has released the top books checked out of the county’s public libraries. John Green’s “Turtles All the Way Down” and Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” made the list. [Fairfax County]
County remains among the richest — the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that Fairfax County ranks second as the richest county from 2013 to 2017, following Loudoun County. [U.S. Census Bureau]
It’s snow joke — With snow predictions looming, the Virginia Department of Transportation wants residents to stay safe by looking over its 2018-2019 “snow facts.” [VDOT]
Fine arts photography collection — The “La Lumiere DuBois VII” exhibit by Michael DuBois, who highlights his love of nature, opens today at the Reston Community Center Hunters Woods. The exhibit is open until Jan. 6. [Reston Community Center]
“She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition” — Watch students from the Herndon High School perform a contemporary dramatic comedy tonight at 7 p.m. Parental guidance is recommended. [Herndon High School Theatre]
Photo by Susan Berger
Opening night for “The Nutcracker” — The Conservatory Ballet begins performances tonight of the holiday classic at 7 p.m. at CenterStage. [Reston Community Center]
Deadline pushed for Silver Line project contractors — The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority extended the deadline yesterday for proposals to accommodate the vendors interested in operating the extension of the Metrorail Silver Line to March 18. [WMATA]
Reston-based technology developer is raking in the money — OpenLegacy has raised $30 million in funding. Silverhorn Investment Advisors led the round. [OpenLegacy]
Snow possible this weekend — Get your snow boots out. Forecasters say a chance of wintery storms could hit Reston over the weekend. [Reston Patch]
Photo via Marjorie Copson
Local police and law enforcement officials are advising commuters to exercise caution as they head out today. A winter weather advisory, which was initially in effect until 1 p.m. today, has been extended to 4 p.m.
Two roads in Reston, Fox Mill Road at Folkstone Drive and Wiehle Avenue at Inlet Court, which were closed earlier this morning, are now open, according to the Fairfax County Police Department. FCPD is maintaining a list of all closures in the county online.
Here’s more from social media:
Broken down bus on Reston Station Blvd. Clearing out now. @wtop pic.twitter.com/QJxOrpZtHL
— Grant Gongloff (@GrantGongloff) November 15, 2018
@capitalweather Alexandria-Reston commute was genuinely harrowing. I would not recommend going out if people can avoid it. pic.twitter.com/CMiinu0xTA
— Robyn (@Luxnoctis) November 15, 2018
This story has been updated.
(Updated at 8:10 a.m.)
Fairfax County Public Schools and school facilities will be closed today (Thursday) as a winter weather advisory has been put into effect for Fairfax County. Schools were originally only set for a two hour delay.
From 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. today (Thursday), the National Weather Service is warning residents throughout the Washington, D.C. area to expect up to one inch of sleet and snow, with ice accumulations of up to a tenth of an inch.
NWS says the icy conditions could mean slippery roads and sidewalk conditions in some areas. Here’s more from the NWS alert:
Be very careful if you venture outside tomorrow. Watch your first few steps in particular as your step or path may be coated with ice.
A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow, sleet or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Expect slippery
roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.
Fairfax County Government officials remind commuters and residents to take the following precautions as they head out today:
• Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter, checking that your lights, oil, antifreeze, brakes, tires and windshield wipers are in good shape.
• Ensure your headlights are on day or night during inclement weather.
• Leave a few minutes early when driving in inclement weather.
• Keep an eye out for black ice and be aware of potentially icy areas such as bridges.
• Create a safe stopping distance between your car and other vehicles.
• If it does snow, be sure to clear ice and snow from your car’s roof, hood and trunk – and especially from windows, mirrors and lights. Don’t try to drive before your car is defrosted!
Photo via National Weather Service
Fairfax County Public Schools will be closed tomorrow as a spring snow storm sweeps through the region.
Although snow fall is mainly over, the risk of refreezing is possible tonight.
Photo by Michael Piper
County officials are cautioning against driving today as the heaviest period of snow sweep through the area this afternoon.
About four inches have piled up in Reston, according to measurements from Reston Now readers. Snow is expected to continue into the evening, with light accumulation expected.
Mass transit is operating at reduced service levels. WMATA is running on a severe snow plan, which means major systemwide delays. Metroraill will operate on a modified schedule, with trains running every 12 to 15 minutes on all lines.
If you’re planning to shovel out before freezing temperatures hit, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Departments encourages individuals to “take it slow.”
“It is important to consider your physical limitations. Wear weather appropriate gear to keep you warm. Only shovel snow if you are physically able to do so. This snow is a wet and heavy type of snow,” the department cautioned.
Here’s more from social media:
Stay home if you can. The roads are very slippery and driving conditions are bad. To those on the road for work reasons, we are with you and here if you need us! pic.twitter.com/3KdBfAOOni
— Fairfax County Police (@fairfaxpolice) March 21, 2018
VSP Troopers have responded to 250 crashes across #Virginia since midnight. Delay travel or end up like this driver…stuck on I-66 in Fairfax Co in #NorthernVA. https://t.co/oUYbn0cLC8 for road conditions. @VaDOTNOVA pic.twitter.com/J2FoktpULZ
— VA State Police (@VSPPIO) March 21, 2018
Help #FCFRD Access Nearest Fire Hydrant In An Emergency! All residents, who are physically able to do so, are asked to keep the nearest fire hydrant accessible and free of snow and ice. More: https://t.co/y6qPPeWQi4 #ffxstorm #adoptahydrant pic.twitter.com/MBcjAsyV2a
— Fairfax Fire/Rescue (@ffxfirerescue) March 21, 2018
Photos submitted by Michael Piper, Robbie Nolan, Betty Bley, Angelika Stadel and Douglass Errett