Winter Storm Watch issued for Alexandria; heavy snow possible Sunday night into Monday
City deploys crews early Sunday as NWS forecast calls for 2 to 4 inches; broader regional watch puts potential accumulation at 5 or more
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Alexandria and the Washington region, with snow accumulation of 2 to 4 inches possible in the city Sunday night — and 5 or more inches possible across the broader watch area, which includes the District, portions of Maryland, and northern Virginia.
The City of Alexandria said Saturday evening it is fully prepared to respond. Crews will deploy to roadways early Sunday morning, working in 12-hour shifts around the clock until conditions improve. The city is also partnering with local contractors to supplement its full-time snow and ice removal staff.
The watch runs from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning. Winds could gust as high as 29 to 35 mph, and the NWS warned the Monday morning commute could be significantly impacted.
The weekend forecast for Alexandria breaks down as follows: rain is likely tonight after 1 a.m., mixing with snow after 5 a.m., with little accumulation expected overnight. Sunday will bring rain and snow, with a high near 39 and a 100% chance of precipitation — less than half an inch of accumulation is expected during the day. Sunday night is when conditions turn serious, with a low around 31, gusts up to 29 mph, and 2 to 4 inches of accumulation possible. A 50% chance of snow and rain lingers into Monday, with gusts up to 31 mph and a high near 40.
A Winter Storm Watch means conditions are favorable for heavy snow but not yet certain. It could be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning as the storm approaches.
The city is urging residents to limit travel once inclement weather begins and to park in driveways before snowfall starts to give plows room to work. Volunteer Alexandria’s Snow Buddy program connects volunteers with neighbors who need help clearing sidewalks and driveways. For updates, visit alexandriava.gov/Alert or subscribe to city eNews alerts.
This story updates previous coverage from Friday, February 20. Source: National Weather Service, Baltimore MD/Washington DC.
