Washington, D.C. is in the grip of a powerful winter storm that has already dumped several inches of snow across the city, shutting down schools and making roads nearly impassable. And just when it seems like relief is in sight, another round of messy weather is set to arrive.
The storm, which began Tuesday afternoon, quickly turned the nation’s capital into a snow-covered landscape, bringing travel to a crawl and forcing the closure of D.C. Public Schools on Wednesday. Officials are urging residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, as icy conditions and more precipitation could make travel even more dangerous.
How Much Snow Has Fallen?
As of Tuesday evening, about 4 inches of snow had blanketed the city, with some surrounding areas seeing slightly higher totals. An additional 1 to 2 inches is expected overnight before the system moves out by Wednesday morning.
But the break won’t last long. Another storm system is moving in, bringing the potential for freezing rain, sleet, and more snow by Wednesday night.
What’s Coming Next? A Second Wave of Winter Weather
Wednesday, February 12 – Morning snow tapers off, but the damage is already done. Roads will be slick, and slushy conditions will make travel difficult. A brief break in precipitation will last through midday, but by late afternoon, another system will arrive, bringing a dangerous mix of freezing rain and sleet before changing to rain. Highs will reach the mid-30s°F (2°C), just warm enough to turn the snow into a wet, slushy mess.
Thursday, February 13 – A sharp warm-up arrives, with temperatures climbing to 54°F (12°C). Any remaining snow will start to melt, but morning rain could make for tricky commutes, with leftover ice creating slippery conditions on sidewalks and roads.
Friday, February 14 (Valentine’s Day) – Finally, a dry day! Sunshine returns, but temperatures will remain chilly, with highs only reaching 38°F (4°C). If you have dinner plans, dress warmly—overnight lows will dip to 25°F (-4°C).
How This Storm is Impacting D.C.
With back-to-back rounds of winter weather, the city is experiencing major disruptions, including:
- School Closures – D.C. Public Schools will remain closed Wednesday, and additional closures may be announced depending on road conditions.
- Delayed Government Openings – D.C. government offices will open at 10 AM on Wednesday, giving employees extra time to commute safely.
- Hazardous Travel Conditions – Snow and ice have already made driving treacherous, and with a wintry mix on the way, roads could become even more dangerous.
- Flight Delays and Cancellations – Ronald Reagan National Airport and Dulles International Airport are reporting multiple flight delays and cancellations, so travelers should check with airlines before heading out.
What You Need to Do to Stay Safe
- Stay Off the Roads if Possible – Conditions will remain icy and hazardous through at least Thursday morning.
- Shovel Early – If snow turns to rain Wednesday, it will become heavier and harder to remove.
- Watch for Ice – Sidewalks and untreated roads will be extremely slippery, especially in the mornings.
- Prepare for Power Outages – Heavy, wet snow and ice could weigh down power lines, increasing the risk of outages.
Final Thoughts
Washington, D.C. is in the middle of its most significant winter storm of the season, and it’s not over yet. With several inches of snow already on the ground and more winter weather on the way, residents should stay alert, stay indoors when possible, and prepare for more disruptions in the coming days.
