NoVA, DC Weather: Ice Storm Warning, Power Outages Possible

VIRGINIA/DC — An ice storm warning has been issued for Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia until 7 a.m. on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

Two to three tenths of an inch of sleet and freezing rain are expected to accumulate, causing dangerous conditions. Residents in the area should prepare for possible power outages, forecasters said.

“Roadways are becoming very icy and dangerous,” the National Weather Service wrote in its warning statement. “Avoid all unnecessary travel.”

"If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency," the NWS said.

The warning represents the first ice storm warning for the District since February 2008, according to The Washington Post’s Capital Weather Gang.

In a 4 p.m. update Saturday, the Virginia Department of Transportation said road surfaces in Northern Virginia remain hazardous due to continued precipitation and below-freezing temperatures. Precipitation on treated pavement can quickly refreeze, VDOT said.

Crews are applying treatment such as sand and salt on interstates, primary routes, main thoroughfares and trouble spots to help improve traction, according to the department.

Dominion Energy issued an alert that ice is causing damage to power lines, which is leading to power outages. "Hazardous travel conditions make some areas more difficult to access, but our crews will make repairs as safely and quickly as possible," Dominion said.

Freezing rain and sleet, with temperatures 27 to 30 degrees, are expected in the region through 9 p.m. Saturday. Freezing drizzle could last into early Sunday, forecasters said.