D.C. Region Faces Major Snowstorm With Delayed Federal Office Openings

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A significant winter storm is impacting the Washington, D.C. area, with forecasts indicating snowfall of up to eight inches by Wednesday morning. Federal employees in the region have been granted a two-hour delayed arrival time for work on February 12, 2025, due to the inclement weather.

As snow continued to fall on Tuesday, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) announced that federal workers could also opt for unscheduled leave or telework. In their guidance, OPM highlighted the importance of consulting with respective agencies for further instructions given the critical nature of work being performed across the federal government.

According to reports from WTOP, certain parts of the D.C. area might receive up to seven inches of snow, contributing to hazardous travel conditions. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning effective from 1 p.m. Tuesday until 7 a.m. Wednesday.

The delayed opening decision follows OPM’s directive to federal agencies to release employees no later than 2 p.m. on Tuesday. This storm marks the second major snowfall event in the district this year, following a January storm that deposited as much as 10 inches of snow.

Confirming the snow accumulation, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that D.C. Public Schools would be closed on February 12, with all programming canceled. The mayor also noted that D.C. Government offices would open at 10 a.m., and residents should stay safe during the storm.

As of Tuesday evening, approximately four inches of snow had already fallen, with an additional one to two inches expected overnight. Snow is anticipated to taper off by daybreak, followed by a brief lull in precipitation before another system introduces a wintry mix that will turn to rain later in the day.

Authorities have activated the District’s Snow Emergency, which prohibits parking on designated snow emergency routes. Vehicles parked on these routes may be subject to towing. Motorists are urged to relocate their vehicles promptly to avoid inconvenience.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) has confirmed that trash and recycling collection crews will operate on a normal schedule, but delays may occur. Residents can expect some food collection services to shift through the week, culminating on Saturday, February 15.

Metrobus services will transition to a moderate snow plan by 8 p.m. on Tuesday, with 114 of 193 routes still operational but subject to detours. Passengers are advised to anticipate longer wait times and to check WMATA‘s website for specific information regarding route impacts.

As the D.C. area continues to grapple with extreme winter weather conditions, officials reiterate the necessity for vigilance among residents and commuters. The federal workforce will adapt to changing conditions, ensuring that essential services remain operational while prioritizing employee safety.