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Alexandria warns light snowfall could impact evening commute tonight

E. Reed Avenue in Alexandria, Jan. 6, 2025 (staff photo by James Cullum)

Alexandria is forecast to get a light dusting of snow, according to the National Weather Service, but the City of Alexandria put out an alert warning that it could be enough to affect commuters.

“The National Weather Service has advised that snow is likely Thursday, January 16 through the early evening and may impact the evening commute,” the release said. “Visibility may be reduced, and snowfall may be present on roadways between 5 and 8 p.m. Our area will most likely see a light dusting of snow, but accumulation may be up to 0.5 inches.”

The National Weather Service described the snowfall as “potential for hazardous commuting conditions.”

The snowfall is expected to be significantly lighter than the snowstorm the city faced last week.

The City of Alexandria said commuters should plan ahead and allow for extra travel time.

“Avoid driving if you are able,” the release said. “If you must use your car, make sure the car is adequately fueled, and you have a charged cell phone with you.”

In the alert, the City of Alexandria laid out what it’s doing to prepare for possible snowfall.

Here is What the City is Doing to Prepare:   

  1. Transportation and Environmental Services (T&ES) is brining all critical roadways today, with a focus on ice-prone areas such as hills, bridges and overpasses.
  2. The Department of Community & Health Services (DCHS) Winter Shelter at 2355-A Mill Road is open through Friday, January 17 at noon.
    • DCHS is monitoring the weather and will adjust operating hours as needed.
  3. The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) recreation centers and City Libraries will also serve as warming centers during their normal operating hours. Hours may be extended if needed.  A full list of RPCA recreation centers is available, and Recreation Centers and Libraries can be located on the City Services Map. 
  4. City staff are also monitoring evolving forecasts predicting snowfall on Saturday; because forecasts for weekend weather are still evolving, T&ES will begin providing any necessary updates about this separate weather event Friday evening.
  5. City staff are updating the Alexandria Snow Report to inform residents of current road conditions.

About the Author

  • Vernon Miles is the ALXnow cofounder and editor. He's covered Alexandria since 2014 and has been with Local News Now since 2018. When he's not reporting, he can usually be found playing video games or Dungeons and Dragons with friends.