Guide To Road Treatment, Snow Removal, Outages In Fairfax County

Fairfax County will be under a winter storm warning Wednesday as a wintry mix moves into the area and turns into snow in the early morning. The rain and snow mix with temperatures in the 30s will create hazardous road conditions.

Capital Weather Gang forecasters predict much of Fairfax County could receive 2 to 5 inches or snow, with a worst-case scenario of 5 to 8 inches and a best-case scenario of less than 2 inches. The northern part of the county could see the worst of the storm with a potential 6-12 inches, worst-case scenario of 8 to 12 inches and best-case scenario of 2-4 inches.

SEE ALSO: Fairfax County Public Schools Change Schedule For March 20

Ahead of the snowfall, here are some things to know:

Who treats the snow and ice in Fairfax County?

The Virginia Department of Transportation treats roads in Fairfax County, except for a few private roads that are the responsibility of the homeowner or a homeowner association. Fairfax County does clear a few roads, mostly around police and fire stations, for example.

VDOT trucks were mobilized Monday night to treat roads when needed. After two inches have fallen, crews will be able to begin to push snow and continuously treat affected areas. (For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app; download the free Patch Android app here.)

What is VDOT's priority when it snows?

Treatment priorities are on major highways and primary roadways, then snow emergency routes and heavily traveled roads, and remaining roads handled by VDOT.

How can I check when my street will be treated?

VDOT has a web tool at vdotplows.org that shows the status of road treatment in NoVa neighborhoods. Green means the neighborhood has been treated, yellow means that treating is in progress, blue indicates treating hasn't started working, and gray means VDOT doesn't maintain the area.

Who is responsible for treating walkways and sidewalks?

Fairfax County residents are asked to help clear sidewalks in front of residences and businesses to keep them safe for pedestrians and particularly children and those with disabilities or the elderly. If you're part of a homeowner association, you may be required to do so, so contact your association if you're not sure.
Fairfax County recommends that you consider removing ice in the following seven places:

• The sidewalk in front of your home
• The sidewalk in front of vacant homes or homes where residents are unable to shovel
• Fire hydrants
• Bus stops (there are more than 4,000 in the county!)
• Sidewalks/paths that lead to schools or community buildings where snow has been removed
• Bike trails
• Storm drains

What happens if outages occur?

Heavy snow causing trees and tree branches to fall and bring down power lines will be a concern Wednesday. Dominion Power customers should report outages online or by calling 866-366-4357. Plan ahead by keeping your phone charge and following other outage safety preparations.

What does the storm mean for traffic?

A wintry mix on Tuesday and snow on Wednesday morning could make the rush hour commutes difficult. Temperatures near freezing could mean continuing potential for slick road conditions and refreezing.

VDOT urges commuters to monitor the forecast and check the road conditions before driving. Drivers should go slowly and cautiously when road conditions worsen and VDOT trucks begin treating roads. For statewide highway information, call 511 or visit to 511virginia.org.

VDOT offers these tips for driving during the winter storm:

• Ensure gas and wiper fluid tanks are full, and have a good emergency kit. Visit ready.gov/car for preparation tips.
• Before beginning your trip, know the current road conditions and weather forecast.
• Clear the snow and ice from your vehicle’s roof, hood and trunk and especially from the windows, mirrors and lights.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Leave a few minutes early.
• Start out slowly in the lowest gear recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer.
• Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges.
• Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road.
• Don't pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary. Treat these as you would emergency response vehicles.
• Keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car.
• Drive smart

Image via skatzenberger/Shutterstock