Get ready for a sharp drop in temperatures and gusty winds as a strong cold front moves through the region tonight into Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecast Overview
Thursday Morning: A mix of rain and snow showers may persist until 10 a.m., transitioning to snow in some areas briefly before tapering off. Temperatures will fall to around 33°F by late afternoon. Strong west winds at 16-20 mph could gust as high as 46 mph—precipitation chance: 40%.
Thursday Night: Skies will clear, but it will remain cold with lows around 29°F. Winds will continue from the west at 14 mph, with gusts up to 23 mph.
What to Expect
The powerful cold front will bring:
- Windy Conditions: Gusts could reach up to 46 mph, with the potential to cause isolated power outages and downed tree limbs.
- Chilly Temperatures: Wind chills will make temperatures feel much colder, especially on Thursday night when it could feel like the teens or single digits in some areas.
- Precipitation: A mix of rain and snow may lead to slick spots during the morning commute, especially in higher elevations and areas northwest of the immediate area.
Potential Impacts
- Power Outages: High winds may result in minor power disruptions, so residents should charge devices and prepare for outages.
- Travel Safety: Due to dangerous conditions, including whiteouts and reduced visibility, drivers in the mountains or other high elevations are advised to avoid non-essential travel.
The cold snap is expected to continue through Friday, but high pressure moving in will bring a gradual warming trend over the weekend. By early next week, another weather system could increase the chance of rain in the area.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and advisories. Those in higher-risk areas should prepare for rapidly changing conditions and consider limiting travel during peak wind and snow times.
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Prince William County government offices and facilities will be open on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Still, employees can take unscheduled leave or engage in unscheduled telework due to current weather conditions.
While the county remains open for business, residents are encouraged to check for the latest updates on facility-specific operations by visiting pwcva.gov/emergency.
Some county services may be impacted by the weather. Before visiting a county facility, call ahead or check the county’s website.
Several schools in our region have announced closures and delays for Wednesday, January 8, 2025, due to inclement weather and hazardous road conditions.
Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FXBGO!) announced that transit service, which was suspended on Tuesday due to winter weather, is expected to resume at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 8. Residents relying on public transportation are encouraged to plan accordingly and check for updates before traveling.
In addition to transit disruptions, the city’s trash collection schedule has been adjusted. Monday’s missed routes resumed today, and services will shift forward by one day for the remainder of the week. Tuesday’s trash will be collected on Wednesday, Wednesday’s on Thursday, and so on.
The City of Fredericksburg’s Public Works Department continues its efforts to clear snow and ice from roadways. Primary collector roads are reported to be in good condition, but some residential and collector roads remain compacted with snow and ice. Crews are applying plowing and chemical treatments as necessary to address these areas. As temperatures drop overnight, roads may refreeze, and drivers are urged to exercise caution when traveling.
The City also reminds property owners and occupants of their obligation to clear sidewalks adjacent to their properties. Snow and ice must be removed within 12 hours after snowfall ends, or by noon the following day if precipitation occurs overnight or on a Sunday. Sand or abrasives may be used if removal isn’t feasible. Residents and businesses are also responsible for clearing ADA access ramps to ensure safe pedestrian passage.
The animals below are STRAYS turned into the PWC Animal Services Center between 01/03/2025 – 01/06/2025. We post photos of stray animals brought to the Center a couple of times each week to help owners find their missing pets.
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