Snowplows are out Friday—here's what you need to know before winter hits

The city's annual training drill is a good reminder to brush up on sidewalk rules, snow emergency routes and how to track plows in your neighborhood.

Update, Dec. 4, 5:50 p.m.: Alexandria City Public Schools is monitoring conditions and will announce by 5:30 a.m. Friday whether schools will delay or close. Check acps.k12.va.us or sign up for alerts.

Update, Dec. 4, 2 p.m.: A Winter Weather Advisory is now in effect for Alexandria from 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. NWS expects about an inch of snow and warns of “treacherous” morning travel conditions.

If you see snowplows on Alexandria streets Friday morning, don’t worry—it’s a drill. The city runs an annual practice to test equipment and train crews before real snow arrives.

But this year’s timing could be fortuitous: The National Weather Service is forecasting a 50% chance of snow Friday, with possible freezing rain Friday night. If that happens, crews may transition from practice to the real thing.

See how crews prepare: We are snow ready: How city public works crews prepare for snow

Here’s what residents should know before winter weather hits.

Your sidewalk is your responsibility. City code requires property owners to clear adjacent sidewalks within 24 to 72 hours after snowfall ends, depending on storm severity. Fail to shovel, and you could face a $50 fine—or the city clears it and bills you.

Know the snow emergency routes. When the city declares a snow emergency, vehicles parked on designated routes can be towed at your expense. Key routes include King Street, Washington Street, Duke Street, Route 1, Braddock Road, and Eisenhower Avenue. See the full list and map.

Find your snow plow zone: Primary routes (red) are plowed first, followed by secondary (blue), intermediate (pink) and residential (green). Emergency routes are marked with dotted red lines. (City of Alexandria)

Track your street’s status. Wondering when the plow is coming? The city’s SnowReport tool shows plowing priority and real-time status for your street.

Volunteer—or get help. The Snow Buddy program matches volunteers with seniors and disabled residents who can’t clear their own sidewalks. Sign up to help or request assistance.

Want the full rundown? The city’s transportation director answers common questions—including who clears sidewalks—in this short video: What you should know about snow in Alexandria

More info: alexandriava.gov/snow