The threat of freezing rain has prompted early dismissals for students, government employees and private sector employees alike, but so far few if any problems have been reported in Arlington.
The early dismissals did create an early rush hour on local highways, as workers and students headed home, but here in Arlington roads and sidewalks remained passable and largely free of slick spots, despite a wave a sleet earlier this afternoon.
The precipitation is over for now, but more is possible this evening. A re-freeze is also threatening to make tomorrow’s morning commute treacherous.
The following tweets show activity during the two-hour-or-so span from the start of the sleet to the heaviest of the traffic.
Due to inclement weather, Marymount will close at 2 p.m. on Monday, January 8. Shuttle service will run on a regular weekend schedule until 5 p.m.
— Marymount University (@marymountu) January 8, 2018
Trucks throughout the district have begun patrolling and treating roads (where needed). People have also headed home from work early. Factor in extra time to get home and pls be patient.
— VDOT Northern VA (@VaDOTNOVA) January 8, 2018
A very good sign!! Rain and sleet melting on my car. I was expecting ice!! Still bad in spots especially North and West of #DC so be careful pic.twitter.com/LX6loV2UpB
— Doug Kammerer (@dougkammerer) January 8, 2018
Rain and sleet in Clarendon as well. So far, sidewalks are wet but not slippery. https://t.co/M3NUeIee3f
— Arlington Now (@ARLnowDOTcom) January 8, 2018
Runways remain open for landing/takeoff, and airfield surfaces have been treated in advance of possible freezing rain. Airlines are deicing planes. Expect some flight delays and cancellations. https://t.co/tYs3n9HI8p
— Reagan Airport (@Reagan_Airport) January 8, 2018
Traffic not too bad in Arlington as sleet arrives and workers head home, with the exception of heavy westbound traffic on I-66 pic.twitter.com/Pm16A1ftyV
— Arlington Now (@ARLnowDOTcom) January 8, 2018
For those trying to decide whether to leave now — it might actually be a good idea to just stay and work the day. As sleet exits, temperatures will warm. Refreeze possible later after the sun sets, but evening commute should be okay on treated main roads.
— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) January 8, 2018
Commuters can expect Heavy Traffic conditions/Early Rush Hour due to Weather-Related Advisory/ Early dismissals. Slow Dow and use Caution
— DC Police Traffic (@DCPoliceTraffic) January 8, 2018
