Major Winter Storm Closes Schools in D.C., Maryland, Virginia

The first major winter storm of 2025 dumped up to 10 inches of snow across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region, forcing widespread school closures on Monday and Tuesday. With frigid temperatures preventing the snow from melting, several school districts have already announced additional closures and delays for Wednesday.

The storm, which began Sunday night, disrupted daily life across the region, with hazardous road conditions and reduced visibility making travel dangerous. Local authorities urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Public transportation services, including Metro buses and trains, experienced delays and cancellations.

School districts in Fairfax County, Montgomery County, and Prince George's County were among the first to announce closures. ‘The safety of our students and staff is our top priority,’ said a spokesperson for Fairfax County Public Schools. ‘We will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary.’

In addition to school closures, many after-school activities, including sports practices and club meetings, were canceled. Some districts also postponed midterm exams scheduled for this week. Parents and students were advised to check their school district’s website or social media channels for the latest updates.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a winter storm warning for the region, predicting additional snowfall and wind chills as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. ‘This storm is particularly dangerous due to the combination of heavy snow and extreme cold,’ said an NWS spokesperson. ‘We urge everyone to take precautions and stay informed.’

Local governments mobilized snowplows and salt trucks to clear roads, but many residential streets remained impassable. Emergency services reported an increase in weather-related incidents, including car accidents and slips on icy sidewalks.

Residents took to social media to share photos and videos of the snow-covered landscape, with some expressing frustration over the prolonged closures. ‘I understand the need for safety, but this is really disrupting our routine,’ said one parent in Arlington, Virginia.

As the region braces for more winter weather, officials are reminding residents to check on vulnerable neighbors, keep emergency supplies on hand, and avoid unnecessary travel. The storm is expected to taper off by Thursday, but temperatures will remain below freezing through the weekend.