Record Snowfall Hits D.C. Region, Disrupts Travel and Schools

The Washington, D.C., region experienced its first significant snowfall of the season on Monday, with record-breaking totals that disrupted travel, closed schools, and left roads hazardous. The National Weather Service reported snow accumulations ranging from 6 to 10 inches across the area, with some locations in Maryland and Virginia seeing over 11 inches.

Reagan National Airport recorded 7.2 inches of snow, while Dulles International Airport and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) reported 5.1 inches and 6.6 inches, respectively. Prince Frederick, Maryland, and Independent Hill, Virginia, were among the hardest-hit areas, with 11.6 inches and 11 inches of snow, respectively.

The storm prompted widespread closures, including government offices and school districts in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Many school systems, including D.C. Public Schools, announced closures for Tuesday due to icy road conditions and ongoing cleanup efforts. Major roadways were cleared, but side streets remained snow-covered, posing risks for drivers and pedestrians alike.

Maryland State Police responded to more than 200 crashes and 300 abandoned vehicles during the storm. Danny King of the Montgomery County Department of Transportation urged residents to stay home if possible, saying, “The best thing to do if you can and don’t have to go anywhere, just stay home, and give us the room to work.”

Metrobus services were reduced to a limited schedule on Tuesday, operating only 42 of its usual 193 routes. Metro trains, however, ran as normal. Hundreds of flights were canceled at Reagan National, Dulles, and BWI airports, with Reagan National temporarily closing its runways Monday night to prevent refreezing.

As temperatures remained below freezing, officials warned of the potential for water main breaks and frozen pipes. Residents were advised to take precautions, such as insulating pipes and keeping faucets dripping, to prevent damage.

The National Zoo and Smithsonian museums also closed on Tuesday due to the weather. With frigid temperatures and strong winds expected throughout the week, officials urged caution and patience as crews continued to clear roads and restore normalcy to the region.