City of Alexandria Preparing for More Snow, Bitter Wind Chills 

Page updated on August 16, 2024 at 10:39 AM
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The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter weather advisory for Alexandria on Friday, January 19, from 4 a.m.-7 p.m.  

NWS predicts possible additional snow accumulation of one to three inches north of US-50/I-66 with amounts around one inch to the south. 

Alexandrians should plan for slippery road conditions, which may impact morning commutes. Slow down and use caution while traveling. When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on steps and sidewalks. 

Saturday is expected to bring bitterly cold wind chills with gusty winds and low temperatures (High: 27 °F, Low: 18 °F, Wind Chill: 4 °F). 

How the City is Preparing 

The Department of Community & Human Services Winter Shelter (2355-A Mill Rd.) will be open 24 hours through Monday, January 22. Please share this information with any individuals or households in need of a warm safe place to stay. To reach the Winter Shelter, call 571.652.9984. For additional information about services for people experiencing homelessness, transportation, warming centers, and other resources, visit alexandriava.gov/DCHS.   

The Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES) is preparing for snowfall anticipated Thursday night into Friday. T&ES will formally mobilize its snow and ice crews this evening at 7 p.m., with 24-hour coverage for the duration of the event. 

The Department of Recreation, Parks, & Cultural Activities (RPCA) will also activate winter weather response crews this evening at 7 p.m. RPCA recreation centers will serve as warming centers during their normal operating hours. Hours may be extended if needed. A full list of RPCA recreation centers is available here.  

This afternoon, snow response agencies are focused on any necessary pre-treatment activities as well as equipment checks and maintenance. Staff will monitor and adjust response plans as needed throughout the weather event. 

How You Can Prepare 

With the weather expected to drop to dangerously low temperatures, be prepared and know where you can go to get out of the cold. If in need of a place to warm up, consider visiting a restaurant, shopping mall, community center, or local library.  

  • Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind the specific needs of each person in your party, including medication and access to power.  

  • If you have a pet, be sure to provide them with access to a warm shelter, preferably indoors, as well as plenty of food and water.  

  • Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Keep pipes from freezing by allowing faucets to drip and keeping cabinet doors open and garage doors closed.  

Visit alexandriava.gov/Snow for more information about winter emergency preparedness & safety tips.  

We recommend using the Alex311 Website, Alex311 Mobile App, and @AlexandriaVA311 social media for reporting City services-related concerns. For immediate emergency assistance, call 9-1-1.  

Subscribe to alexandriava.gov/eNews to receive weather updates.  

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you, please email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.