(Washington, DC) About 100 District snow plows were deployed overnight in case a forecasted mix of rain, sleet and snow, turned more severe than expected. So when snow began falling at 2 am, the DC Snow Team (Department of Public Works and District Department of Transportation) was ready. The crews treated main streets throughout the city to ensure the roads were in good shape for the morning rush hour, and now the snow team is preparing for a full deployment of 200 plows in advance of the significant snowfall expected later today.

“This snowfall this morning proves once again why it’s better to be safe than sorry,” said DPW Director William O. Howland Jr. “Many of this winter’s storms have fallen short of predicted accumulations, but this morning we got more than we expected and we were ready for it. Now our focus is on tonight.”

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the District and the expected storm has the potential to bring 4-6 inches of snow, starting around 3 pm, and may include sleet or ice, which could affect the evening rush hour. The storm is expected to end early Thursday morning. “Our top priority is to ensure people can get to and from work safely and that students can get to and from school safely,” said DDOT’s Interim Director Terry Bellamy. “Our crews will be out until the threat of inclement weather has passed. We also want to remind residents and businesses they need to be prepared to do their part to keep the sidewalks clear so our residents, workers and children don’t have to walk in the streets.”

“We’ve been very lucky this season to have so little snow to shovel, but that may change with this storm,” said Director Howland. “We are asking property owners to treat their sidewalks with abrasives so pedestrians can get around. If we have snow that accumulates, please clear your sidewalks within 24 hours after the storm ends.”

District law requires property owners to clear the walkways and steps adjacent to their property, and to encourage compliance DDOT and DPW have launched a public awareness campaign called “Is your sidewalk shoveled?” For more information and details about the District’s snow and ice control plan visit DDOT’s website or DPW’s website. You also can follow us on Twitter at @DDOTDC or @DCDPW for regular updates on road conditions and snow removal efforts.

Media Contacts

John Lisle (202) 671-2004

Linda Grant (202) 671-2375