As the heaviest snowstorm in years blanketed Stafford County and the Fredericksburg region, Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews have been working tirelessly to clear roads and keep essential routes passable. Stafford County saw some of the highest snow totals in the area, with accumulations reaching up to 8 inches, and more snow is expected later today.

Kelly Hannon, spokesperson for VDOT’s Fredericksburg District, emphasized the challenges faced by crews during the storm. “Our teams have been making repeated passes since it started snowing around midnight,” Hannon said. “We’ve focused on major routes like I-95, Route 1, Route 17, and Route 610 to ensure access to critical areas, including public safety facilities.”

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Two Waves of Snow and More to Come

While a brief lull in snowfall provided some respite, Hannon warned against complacency. “We’re expecting another 4 to 6 inches of snow this afternoon and evening,” she said. “Crews will return to primary routes and the interstate to keep them traversable for emergency personnel and those who must travel.”

VDOT’s priority is to push as much snow as possible off the travel lanes and shoulders before temperatures drop below 20 degrees tonight. A significant refreeze is expected, which could make snow removal even more difficult. Hannon noted that while the light, fluffy snow moves easily with plows, the incoming frigid temperatures create icy conditions that pose serious hazards.

When asked to grade drivers on their adherence to VDOT’s plea to stay off the roads, Hannon said, “We’ve seen a lot of people staying home, and we’re very grateful. If everyone can stick with us a little longer through the rest of tonight, it will help our crews tremendously.” She added that venturing out too soon could lead to treacherous driving conditions as snow continues to fall.

VDOT’s approach prioritizes the roads with the highest traffic volumes. “Interstate 95 comes first, followed by alternate routes like Route 1, and then primary roads connecting to the interstate,” Hannon explained. Secondary roads and residential streets are addressed later. “We will get to everyone,” she assured. However, due to the storm’s scale and low temperatures, residents shouldn’t expect bare pavement immediately.

VDOT has mobilized more than 900 pieces of snow removal equipment to tackle the storm. “This is a huge responsibility,” Hannon said. “Our staff and contractors train year-round for events like this. Their dedication to serving the community is immense, and we couldn’t do this without our contractor partners who join us during the winter.”

Storm totals

Here are the snow totals from highest to lowest for these areas, as reported by the National Weather Service and trained spotters:

Prince William County

• Nokesville: 8.5 inches
• Dale City: 7.6 inches
• Woolsey (1 SW): 6.3 inches
• Dale City: 6.0 inches
• Triangle: 6.0 inches

Stafford County

• Arkendale : 8.0 inches
• Stafford: 7.5 inches
• Holly Corner : 6.0 inches

Fredericksburg

• Dunavant (1 S): 6.0 inches

Stay tuned to Potomac Local News for updates and more stories about the community’s response to this winter storm.

Prince William County government offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025, as officials anticipate potential impacts from adverse weather conditions. The decision was made to ensure the safety of residents and county employees during what is expected to be a challenging day for travel and operations.

The closure affects all county government buildings, including administrative offices, public libraries, community centers, and other public facilities. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the weather forecast and road conditions, taking precautions as necessary to remain safe.

Essential services, such as emergency response teams, will continue to operate during the closure to ensure public safety and address urgent needs in the community. County officials are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed regarding any further adjustments to schedules or services.

For more information and updates, residents can visit the county’s official website or follow its social media channels.

Due to inclement weather, the Prince William County Judicial Center will be closed tomorrow, Monday, January 6, 2025. This closure affects all courts at the Judicial Center, including the Circuit Court, General District Court, and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.

The Prince William County Judicial Center, located in Manassas, is a significant facility serving the legal needs of a county with a population of over 482,000. The center houses several courtrooms, offices for judges and clerks, and resources for public access to judicial services. Its size and capacity make it a central hub for legal proceedings in one of Virginia’s most populous counties.

Residents and legal professionals are encouraged to check the Prince William County Government website at pwcva.gov/ei for updates on closures and rescheduling. Additional information about other government office closures due to the weather will also be available.

For those with scheduled court appearances, further details regarding rescheduling or deadlines will be communicated by the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the coming days.

As Northern Virginia braces for one of the most significant winter storms in years, Prince William County Fire Chief Thomas LaBelle urges residents to take safety precautions and avoid unnecessary risks. The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall, icy conditions, and dangerously cold temperatures, with snowfall rates possibly reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour.

Chief LaBelle emphasized that preparation and caution are key as the storm approaches. “If you can stay off the roads, stay off the roads,” he said. “It allows the cleanup crews to move more quickly and get this mess gone as soon as possible. If you must drive, remember that bridges freeze first, and maintaining more distance between vehicles and driving slower makes everything safer.”

The county’s fire and rescue teams have been mobilized to respond to emergencies during the storm. LaBelle noted that firefighters and EMTs are ready to assist but stressed the importance of residents preparing their homes and vehicles in advance. “Prepare now while the sun’s up,” he said. “If you think you’ll need a generator, set it up outside, get it gassed up, and make sure it works. Never run generators indoors or in garages to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.”

The chief also urged residents to clear sidewalks and shovel out fire hydrants near their homes, adding that shoveling should be done with care to prevent injuries. “It’s a great cardiovascular workout, so pace yourself. There’s no sense in hurting yourself in the process.”

LaBelle reflected on lessons learned from the 2021 winter storm that stranded motorists on Interstate 95 for hours. “Staying off the roadways is a huge piece of it,” he said. “VDoT [Virginia Department of Transportation] has a difficult time plowing when cars are on the road. If you don’t need to be out, stay home with a warm cup of coffee and a good book.”

Keeping Neighbors and Homes Safe

The chief encouraged residents to check on neighbors, particularly those who may be isolated or new to the area and unfamiliar with winter storms. “Reach out before the snow falls to let them know they can knock on your door if they need help,” he said.

For those using fireplaces or space heaters, LaBelle reminded residents to use them safely. “Keep space heaters at least three to four feet away from anything combustible and ensure you have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home,” he said.

Latest Storm Forecast

According to the National Weather Service, snow is expected to begin around 6 p.m. tonight, with heavy snowfall continuing overnight into Monday. Snowfall totals could range from 4 to 10 inches, with localized areas potentially receiving more. A secondary burst of snow is possible Monday night, and freezing rain or sleet may mix into some areas, reducing totals but increasing the risk of power outages and hazardous conditions.

Temperatures will drop into the teens by Tuesday night, leading to widespread refreezing and dangerous road conditions. Residents are advised to avoid travel and prepare for potential disruptions, including power outages and burst pipes.

Prince William County emergency crews and local agencies are on standby to assist residents, but Chief LaBelle stressed the importance of self-reliance. “Snowstorms like this can bring a community together,” he said. “But it’s up to each of us to prepare, stay safe, and look out for one another.”

Residents across Fredericksburg, Manassas, and Woodbridge should brace for what could be the most significant winter storm in years, with snow accumulations of 4 to 12 inches forecasted. The storm is set to begin Sunday afternoon, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain through Monday and potentially into early Tuesday.

Governor Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency for Virginia, mobilizing state resources to prepare for hazardous conditions. The National Weather Service reports that the storm’s impact will depend on its track, with a northern trajectory bringing more ice and a southern track resulting in heavier snow across the area.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has activated its highest level of preparedness. “We’re mobilizing more than 900 pieces of equipment and have pre-treated major roadways, including Interstate 95, with brine to prevent ice from bonding to surfaces,” said Kelly Hannon of VDOT’s Fredericksburg District. Crews are also staging towing equipment along major routes to quickly address incidents.

Travel Warnings and Road Preparations

VDOT urges residents to complete all essential travel by Sunday and avoid driving during the storm. “Staying off the roads not only ensures your safety but allows our crews to clear snow and ice effectively,” Hannon emphasized. The storm is expected to bring snow at rates of up to an inch per hour, with periods of sleet and freezing rain complicating road conditions. Frigid temperatures following the storm could prolong icy conditions, hindering recovery efforts.

Lessons from the Past

Memories of the January 2022 snowstorm that stranded motorists on Interstate 95 loom large for hours. Hannon stressed the importance of staying home during hazardous weather, as treacherous conditions can halt even the most prepared response teams.

VDOT plans to prioritize interstates and primary roads but acknowledges that secondary streets may take longer to clear. Residents can track road-clearing progress through VDOT’s online resources.

As the storm approaches, Potomac Local News will provide updates on closures, travel conditions, and recovery efforts. Residents are encouraged to subscribe to our email newsletter or follow us online for the latest information.

Officials urge everyone to heed warnings and prepare for several days of challenging weather.

On Dec. 13, 2024, Circuit Court Clerk Jacqueline Smith hosted a “Seal the Deal” event in the Town of Occoquan, where couples could get married without the hassle of planning an elaborate ceremony and reception.

According to a press release from the clerk, Smith married 18 couples during the event. Couples were able to marry in the decorated Occoquan Town Hall with family and friends. Each ceremony was intimate and festive as the hall was decorated for the holidays with festive lights.

“This modern approach to the wedding experience provided couples with an exclusive moment to marry— without the stress of planning an elaborate wedding, the burden of excessive costs or the pressure of social expectations,” the press release stated.

In addition to “Seal the Deal,” Occoquan hosted the Firelight Night event. Local businesses also donated wedding gifts for the couples to take home after their respective ceremonies.

Smith will host her “Valentine’s Day Bash” in February, which will be similar to the “Seal the Deal” event where couples can have an intimate ceremony. For more information, please visit the clerk’s website or social media.

In late December, the Prince William County Police Department celebrated the graduation of its 50th Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) class. The students were made up of professionals from the county, Manassas, Manassas Park, the Adult Detention Center, Prince William County Sheriff’s Office and various state agencies.

Prince William County Police Officer Latrell Guy, who was a member of the 50th class, said he now better appreciates the hardships people face in dealing with mental illness.

“I just have a better understanding of what the person themselves might be going through and get them the help they need rather than go to a more restrictive route,” Guy said. “We need to understand what they have to live with and how we can help them get through their day. It’s something everyone should take in general to be more knowledgeable about these situations.”

According to a Dec. 31, 2024, press release from the county, the program, which was created in 2012, trains officers and community partners on how to help those experiencing a behavioral health crisis. The training also provides information on resources throughout the community.

“We want to get better trained in de-escalation techniques, at being able to recognize signs of mental illness and becoming familiar with and providing information about the resources available. We want to put that all into one package,” Prince William County Police Sgt. Eric Beard, the CIT assistant program coordinator, said.

Since the start of the program more than 10 years ago, more than 1,000 people from the various agencies have successfully finished the 40-hour training. In the county’s police department, nearly 500 officers have graduated. The program initially held two to three sessions per year, but now is able to hold closer to six or seven each year.

“[The program] has led us to … other collaborations – the Marcus Alert initiative, co-responders, our entire response system in Prince William – has been because of relationships we’ve built through starting this program,” Heather Baxter, behavioral health program manager with the county’s Community Services department, said. “I think this sets Prince William County apart from the rest of the state. Our relationships and the way we work together between mental health and the police departments has just made for an open relationship that has led to so many opportunities for us.”

January is going to be a busy month around Prince William County and Manassas with several events and activities scheduled. Take a look at some highlighted events and meetings.

Jan. 6 (Monday)

• Manassas City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 8

• Prince William County School Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

Jan. 11

• Prince William 4-H Cloverbud Club, 10:30 a.m. to noon (Dale City)
• Sprouts and Microgreens Class, 2 to 3:30 p.m. (Manassas)

Jan. 12

• Hiking Under the Moonlit Sky, 6 to 7:30 p.m. (Nokesville)

Jan. 14

• Board of County Supervisors Organizational Meeting, 2 p.m. (Woodbridge)
• Manassas City Public School Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

Jan. 17

• Kid’s Night Out, 6 to 9 p.m. (Woodbridge)

Jan. 18

• Winter Market 2025, 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday through March 22 (Manassas City)
• Metabolic Makeover through Nutrtition, 1 to 2:30 p.m. (Woodbridge)

Jan. 21

• Cyberteck Academy: Minecraft Modding, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Manassas)
• Getting Squirrely, 10 to 11 a.m. (Manassas)
• Board of County Supervisors Meeting, 2 p.m. (Woodbridge)

Jan. 23

• Children Fun Days: National Measure Your Foot Day, 9:30 to 11 a.m. (Manassas)

Jan. 27

• Manassas City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
• State of The County Community Event, 6:30 to 9 p.m. (Manassas)

Jan. 31

• Paint and Hot Chocolate Sip, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (Manassas)
• Manassas City School Board Meeting, 7 p.m.

Prince William County is accepting Christmas trees and other holiday greenery at the curb for waste collection and select sites to recycle.

Starting Jan. 1 through Jan. 17, Prince William County residents can leave their greenery out on the curb. There are also three sites around the county that are accepting trees and additional greenery during this period:

• The Prince William County Landfill, 14811 Dumfries Road in Manassas. Hours are Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The facility is closed on Sundays.
• The Prince William County Compost Facility, 13000 Hansen Farm Road in Manassas. Hours are Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The facility is closed on Sundays.
• Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (NOVEC), located at 5399 Wellington Branch Road in Gainesville, is accepting trees until Jan. 12. The drop-off area is in the front parking lot, outlined with orange safety cones. For more information, contact NOVEC’s vegetation management department at [email protected].

If you choose to recycle, be sure to remove all organments, decorations, tinsel, nails and tree stand before leaving it at the curb or dropping it off.