Northern Virginia Schools Adjust Schedule Due to Winter Storm
A major winter storm is set to affect the Washington D.C. region, prompting schools and local agencies to change their operations significantly. Beginning Tuesday afternoon, residents can expect between 4-6 inches of snow, leading to early dismissals and closures across Northern Virginia and surrounding areas.
According to FOX 5, the snowfall is forecasted to start around noon on Tuesday and extend through the night, with the heaviest accumulation likely impacting the Wednesday morning commute. Snow, alongside anticipated cold rain and sleet following the storm's initial impact, poses risks of icy roads and dangerous conditions for drivers.
The imminent inclement weather has already led to early dismissals for schools. Notably, Prince George's County Public Schools announced a two-hour early dismissal on February 11, 2022. Loudoun County Public Schools will release students three hours early, and Frederick County, Maryland schools announced similar schedules, dismissing students 3.5 hours early.
Several other schools have taken proactive measures as well. Alexandria City Public Schools will operate on staggered dismissal times on Tuesday—preschool and elementary students will be released at 11:35 AM, middle school students at 12:15 PM, and high school students at 12:25 PM. Meanwhile, Fairfax County Public Schools will dismiss classes three hours early. Other school systems, including Culpeper County and Spotsylvania Public Schools, will remain closed altogether.
Federal agencies also announced changes to their operations. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) stated workers would need to leave by 2 PM on Tuesday and would have the option for unscheduled leave or telework. Reports suggest more widespread closings could occur on Wednesday due to expected low temperatures and adverse road conditions.
These decisions reflect careful consideration by school authorities, who assess various factors, including overall district conditions and expected weather patterns. Historical patterns indicate administrators often opt for early dismissals to keep students safe and avoid severe weather during the usual end of the day traffic.
For local jurisdictions, the impact of the winter storm goes beyond schools. Prince William County has announced government offices will close at 2 PM, as courts follow suit. Meanwhile, Marine Corps Base Quantico will maintain operations but allows for reasonable delays for reporting and unscheduled leave.
All school systems anticipate adjusting for after-school programs, with many likely being canceled to safeguard student safety. While the immediate focus remains on Tuesday's storm, forecasts reveal continued potential for inclement weather as freezing rain and sleet are expected to blanket the area following the snow.
Residents are advised to stay tuned to local news outlets such as FOX 5 for real-time updates concerning school closings, schedule changes, and weather alerts throughout this winter storm, ensuring they stay safe amid changing conditions.
With students and families bracing for wintry weather, the coming days will play out as local agencies navigate the challenges posed by this major winter storm. Communities are reminded to take precautions during the coming weather event and to remain updated on official announcements.