A winter storm is expected to impact the region starting Wednesday evening, bringing the potential for significant ice accumulation in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued an Ice Storm Warning for parts of the Potomac Highlands, Northern Shenandoah Valley, and Northern Virginia Blue Ridge.
Prince William County is under a Winter Weather Advisory from 9 p.m. Wednesday to Noon Thursday. Stafford County is currently not under any advisory.
Winter Weather Advisory Details for Prince William County:
- WHAT: Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations up to one inch, with ice accumulations between one-tenth and two-tenths of an inch.
- WHERE: Portions of northern and northwest Virginia, including Prince William County.
- WHEN: 9 p.m. Wednesday to Noon Thursday.
- IMPACTS: Slippery road conditions are likely, which could impact the Thursday morning commute.
- ADDITIONAL DETAILS: A mix of light freezing rain, sleet, and snow begins Wednesday evening, transitioning to steady freezing rain overnight. Temperatures will warm Thursday morning, changing freezing rain to rain.
VDOT Prepares for Icy Roads, Urges Caution
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Northern Virginia District has been spot treating bridges, ramps, and overpasses ahead of the storm. Crews are preparing for the wintry precipitation expected Wednesday into Thursday morning, with freezing rain and sleet likely to create icy road conditions.
VDOT advises limiting travel Wednesday night and delaying travel Thursday morning due to the increased risk of slick roads and hazardous driving conditions. If you must travel:
- Equip your vehicle with emergency supplies.
- Give space to first responders and VDOT crews treating the roads.
- Drive cautiously and be prepared for icy spots on area roads.
- Review winter driving safety tips before heading out.
What to Expect:
- Light wintry mix (freezing rain and sleet) begins Wednesday evening.
- Steady and heavier freezing rain and sleet develop overnight.
- Greatest ice accumulation expected late Wednesday night into early Thursday morning.
- Elevated surfaces (trees, power lines, bridges) will ice up first, with some slick road conditions possible.
- By late Thursday morning, temperatures will rise above freezing, transitioning all precipitation to rain and helping ice melt.
Impacts & Precautions:
- Travel could become hazardous, especially on untreated roads and overpasses.
- Power outages possible due to ice accumulation on trees and power lines.
- Plan ahead if traveling Wednesday night into Thursday morning, and stay updated on road conditions.
After the storm, Friday will bring drier conditions, with temperatures ranging from the 30s in the mountains to the 50s in lower elevations.
Stay prepared, stay safe, and stay tuned for updates on this developing winter storm.
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