Don’t drive this morning unless you absolutely have to.
That’s the message from local and state officials who are still working to clear roads amid freezing conditions.
“Drivers should stay off the roads this morning until at least 10am,” a Virginia State Police spokesman said early Monday. “If you are on the roads, give VDOT trucks and emergency crews room to do their jobs. Also understand that storm impacts could delay emergency response to stranded motorists.”
“Stay in bed. Or at least stay off the roads as Phase 2 of the County’s winter storm response continues,” said Arlington’s Dept. of Environmental Services, on social media. County crews are continuing to prioritize main roads, as frigid conditions and a heavy layer of sleet have made clearing streets difficult.
Stay in bed. Or at least stay off the roads as Phase 2 of the County's winter storm response continues. Public schools are closed and no curbside collection for regular Monday routes. #ArlWX https://t.co/cFUYgAg9Pz pic.twitter.com/In6ITdHwAx
— Arlington Department of Environmental Services (@ArlingtonDES) January 26, 2026
In the county’s next snow removal phase, Phase 3, crews will start focusing on residential streets.
Amid the challenging conditions, VHC Health has renewed its call for people with snow-capable vehicles to volunteer to drive hospital employees.
“VHC Health is still in need of inclement weather driver volunteers to transport staff to and from work throughout the day today,” said a spokesperson. “Based on current winter conditions and area forecasts, VHC Health has declared a “Severe Winter Weather Emergency.” We are looking for volunteers with a valid driver’s license and a four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle. They will be transporting staff members in the area to and from work as current conditions make travel difficult.”
“If your readers have a reliable four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle, feel comfortable driving in winter conditions, and are willing to volunteer, we’d greatly appreciate their assistance and encourage them to call 703.558.5000,” the spokesperson wrote.
The National Weather Service, meanwhile, has issued a Cold Weather Advisory as temperatures are expected to plunge into the single digits overnight, with wind chills well below zero.
From NWS:
729 AM EST Mon Jan 26 2026
…COLD WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 11 AM EST TUESDAY…
* WHAT…Very cold wind chills as low as 5 to 8 below zero expected.
* WHERE…DC and portions of central, northeast, northern, and southern Maryland, and central, northern, and northwest Virginia.
* WHEN…From 7 PM this evening to 11 AM EST Tuesday.
* IMPACTS…The cold wind chills as low as 5 to 8 below zero could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Additional Cold Weather Headlines are expected at times through the end of the week as the region remains in an Arctic Airmass.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.
Keep pets indoors as much as possible.
Make sure outdoor animals have a warm, dry shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
