Fairfax City Snowfall Guide: Snow Removal, Traffic Updates

FAIRFAX, VA — Well, that escalated quickly. What went from a slight chance of a few snowflakes on Saturday morning has turned into a forecast of up to four inches for our area beginning tonight. Here's what you need to know about snow removal and what it could mean for traffic in our area.

How can I keep track of snow removal?
The Virginia Department of Transportation has a live snow plow map where you can track plows in your area.
You can also search road condition reports in your area at 511Virginia.org. You can see live cameras on interstates and major roadways and intersections, too.
What Motorists Should Know:
• While snow is falling, VDOT crews will make repeated passes on Interstates 95 and 66, the Beltway, primary roads, and key secondary roads to keep travel lanes clear.
• VDOT's goal is to have all roads passable within 48 hours of a storm's end.
• Motorists are encouraged to delay any nonessential travel.
• VDOT's Customer Service Center is open 24 hours a day to answer questions and take reports of roadway hazards at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623).

What about walkways and sidewalks?

Per Fairfax City:

• Consider clearing snow and ice promptly from sidewalks and walkways, and using ice “busters” like salt and sand to keep pedestrian areas safe for foot traffic. Even though the city does not have a law requiring property owners to remove snow and ice from sidewalks, such practices are encouraged: safe access to school and bus stops are essential for public safety.
• Shovel snow safely and smartly — click here for a few tips.
• Remember your local hydrant and remove snow and debris for easy access by public safety officials.
• Remove snow from vehicles before getting on the road. Snow and ice flying off a traveling vehicle is a hazard.
• Stay informed about city services, road conditions and public safety information.

Click here for the city's winter weather flyer with additional information

What "rules" should I observe while shoveling?

• Don't stop at the curb or roadway when shoveling. Continue to remove snow from the ground for a few feet past the curb — or, for those without curbs, remove snow a few feet into the street from your driveway.
• Pile snow to the left of the driveway (as you face the driveway), a few feet from the curb or edge of the property. This keeps that snow out of the plow's path (and out of someone else's driveway). Remember: do not pile snow in the street.
• When shoveling, clear an area in the snow to the right of the driveway. Make the area a few feet long and a few feet wide. That way, the plow has less snow to carry past your driveway — and the plow can drop the snow it's already carrying. (Remember to pile the snow either to the left of the driveway or a few feet away from the hole.)
• Help avoid snow "spills" into driveways: consider delaying shoveling until after the city has finished widening the snow plowing of your street. (This is particularly helpful when the city experiences substantial snowfall.)

What are some tips for snow shoveling?

• Do not shovel after eating or while smoking.
• Take it slow and stretch out before you begin.
• Shovel only fresh, powdery snow; it's lighter.
• Push the snow rather than lifting it.
• If you do lift it, use a small shovel or only partially fill the shovel.
• Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Do not work to the point of exhaustion.
• Don't pick up that shovel without a doctor's permission if you have a history of heart disease. If you feel tightness in the chest or dizziness, stop immediately.

How will this affect traffic?

Since the snow is falling on Saturday, we'll be spared a messy commute. However, it can still cause problems, so you should monitor the National Weather Service's social media feeds for any updates.

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