Overnight Snow Across NoVA Causes More Closings, Hazards

NORTHERN VIRGINIA — Snow totals came in below forecasts Sunday, but the snowstorm is refusing to leave the area and has now entered its third day, with sidewalks and some secondary roads covered once again as another 1 to 3 inches of snow fell overnight in parts of Northern Virginia.

With highs expected to reach the mid-30s Tuesday, well-traveled and treated roads should remain safe, although little melting is likely in grassy areas and sidewalks. A total of 3 to 6 inches of snow, with higher amounts in some areas, has fallen across the region so far during the multi-day wintry weather event.

A winter weather advisory is in effect until 1 p.m. Tuesday in most of Northern Virginia, although scattered snow could continue into Tuesday afternoon into the evening, possibly even lingering overnight some, according to the National Weather Service.

When venturing outside, residents should watch their first few steps taken on steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery, increasing the risk of a fall and injury, the NWS said.

Drivers and pedestrians should be on the lookout for “black ice” on roadways, sidewalks, or driveways, AAA Mid-Atlantic warned Tuesday morning.

“In fact, the idiomatic expression ‘black ice’ is a misnomer. It gets its name from the fact that it is a colorless, thin and clear ice coating, in actuality. It is a clear and present danger,” John B. Townsend II, AAA Mid-Atlantic’s manager of public and government affairs, said Tuesday in a statement.

“It is difficult to see, especially on wet roadways, and, ergo, its deceptiveness and its danger, especially for motorists driving much too fast for road conditions and without an abundance of caution in the elements,” Townsend said.

All Prince William and Loudoun County Public Schools and offices are closed Tuesday due to winter weather conditions. All Fairfax County Public School students will participate in teacher-led virtual learning Tuesday as a result of the winter weather.

Virtual learning will continue on a normal schedule in Alexandria, but the city's public school buildings are closed and all programs at the facilities are canceled. Falls Church City Public Schools are virtual on Tuesday, with the exception of Cohort 1. Cohort 1 will have a snow day for students and staff. All athletics and activities are canceled.

In Fredericksburg, City Public Schools are closed Tuesday. Only maintenance employees should report to work, while 12-month employees should telework, the school system said.

On Wednesday, conditions are expected to clear by midday, with mostly sunny skies in the afternoon as highs climb near 40. But Wednesday is forecast to be a windy day, so expect wind chill to remain in the 20s.