Roads Becoming Snow-Covered As Governor Declares State of Emergency

Few crashes or major problems have been reported on Arlington roads so far today (Saturday), but this weekend’s snowstorm is only getting started.

Many streets around the county are becoming increasingly snow-covered, though traffic is light and many seem to be heeding advice to stay at home rather than go out.

Additionally, a number of events were canceled and some facilities closed early tonight. From Arlington County:

• DPR league games and activities with start times of 5:30 p.m. or later this evening are cancelled.
• The Family Skate Night and Teen Night at Thomas Jefferson Community Center are cancelled for this evening.
• All Community Centers will be closing at 6 p.m. this evening.
• The Arlington Gymnastics Competition scheduled this evening will proceed until completion.

Arlington is currently under a Winter Storm Warning, with 6-12 inches of snow expected through Sunday evening. Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam, meanwhile, declared a state of emergency Saturday night.

From a press release:

Governor Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency today in advance of the anticipated effects of winter weather expected this weekend including snow, ice, and high winds throughout much of the Commonwealth. This will likely result in downed trees, power outages, and transportation impacts. The executive order is designed to help Virginia mitigate any damage caused by the winter weather event and to streamline the process that the Commonwealth uses to provide assistance to localities and communities impacted by storm effects.

“I am declaring a state of emergency in order to prepare and coordinate the Commonwealth’s response to anticipated winter storm impacts, including snow and ice accumulations, transportation issues, and power outages,” said Governor Northam. “Virginians should take precautions to stay safe as we begin experiencing winter weather effects.”

Arlington County snow removal crews are currently focusing their efforts on clearing primary roads and secondary arterial streets. After the snow starts tapering off Sunday, those crews will move on to start plowing neighborhood streets.

If more than six inches of snow falls, by county ordinance residents will be expected to clear the sidewalks in front of their homes within 36 hours of the last flakes. If less than six inches fall, that timeframe shortens to 24 hours.

Arlington County has an inventory of 46 plows/salt spreaders. All will be used for this event and contract vehicles will also be brought in. #ArlWX https://t.co/JnvPU3tlvu pic.twitter.com/5hAmMWW96t

— Arlington Department of Environmental Services (@ArlingtonDES) January 12, 2019

VDOT handles several key roadways in Arlington including Glebe Road and parts of Washington Boulevard. https://t.co/axifQKiZ6I

— Arlington Department of Environmental Services (@ArlingtonDES) January 13, 2019

ART Bus service impacts possible Sunday due to changing weather conditions. Please travel only if necessary. Check https://t.co/H2FCKX0Pak for updates.

— ART Alert (@ART_Alert) January 13, 2019