A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from the National Weather Service for a snow storm forecast to start this afternoon, but the City of Alexandria is warning residents not to wait too long before clearing snow off their sidewalks.
In an alert, the City of Alexandria reminded locals that they have between 24-72 hours to clear off the pavement adjacent to their property, depending on the severity of the snowfall.
“In Alexandria, residents and business owners are responsible for clearing the sidewalks, driveways, and entrances of any property you or your business owns or occupies according to City Code Section 5-2-21,” the City said. “Snow and ice must be cleared from all paved sidewalks next to your property within 24-72 hours of the end of the snowfall, depending on the severity of the storm.”
According to the alert:
- Up to 8 Inches of Snow (Level 1): Sidewalks, driveways, and entrances must be cleared within 24 hours after snowfall stops
- Over 8 Inches of Snow (Level 2): Sidewalks, driveways, and entrances must be cleared within 48 hours after snowfall stops
- Blizzard or Heavy Snow (Level 3): Sidewalks, driveways, and entrances must be cleared within 72 hours after snowfall stops
The current forecast says Alexandria and its neighbors are likely to see between 3-6 inches of snow. The National Weather Service said it’s likely snow will start falling around 1 p.m. this afternoon and continue until 7 a.m. tomorrow.
The alert said if people spot a violation, they can snitch report a violation by calling 311 or 703 746 4311.
According to the alert:
The City is responsible for clearing snow and ice on sidewalks, ramps, and pathways in front of publicly owned property.
- First Cleared: School walking areas, accessible curb ramps and sidewalks near key transit stops such as Metro stations, and retail zones.
- Second Cleared: Walks expanding out from schools, parks, and municipal locations.
- Third Cleared: Trails, pathways internal to parks, and bike paths. (The Mount Vernon Trail is maintained by the National Park Service; the City does not plow it during snow events).
Alexandria City Public Schools announced that they’ll have a half-day today with schools dismissing around noon to avoid having students and staff travel home in unsafe conditions.
