Winter Blast Deposits Varied Snow Totals (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Washington, D.C. region – Snowfall tapered off after a powerful winter storm, but gusty winds up to 40 miles per hour, slushy roads, icy sidewalks, and scattered power outages persisted into Tuesday as sunshine finally pierced the clouds.[1][2]
Winter Blast Deposits Varied Snow Totals
The recent nor’easter delivered a slushy coating to more than 6 inches of accumulation in parts of the D.C. area, with the heaviest falls concentrated north and west of the Beltway as well as in Southern Maryland.[3] Wet, heavy snow weighed down trees and power lines, setting the stage for prolonged disruptions. Roads turned treacherous overnight, complicating the morning commute for many drivers.
Utility crews worked tirelessly to address the fallout from the storm’s intensity. The combination of dense snowfall and blustery conditions amplified the challenges across the mid-Atlantic. Residents reported slick surfaces lingering well into the day.
Winds Sustain Power Challenges
Gusts exceeding 30 miles per hour battered the region, toppling limbs and straining electrical infrastructure, which left more than 20,000 customers without power in affected spots.[3] Dominion Energy noted nearly 2,500 outages primarily in Fairfax County, while broader reports highlighted thousands more scattered throughout the DMV.[4] These interruptions stemmed directly from the storm’s wet snow load and persistent breezes.
Forecasters warned that winds would keep outage risks elevated through the afternoon. Crews prioritized restoring service amid ongoing gusts. The situation echoed warnings issued ahead of the event, where heavy snow and strong winds promised widespread impacts.[5]
Hazardous Roads Demand Vigilance
Slushy and icy conditions gripped roadways and sidewalks following the Sunday night onslaught, prompting cautions for motorists and pedestrians alike.[1] Treatment efforts focused on major arteries, yet secondary streets remained perilous. The transition to milder air under sunny skies aided melting but also created refreezing risks in shaded areas.
Travel disruptions extended to air and rail services, with cancellations rippling through the system.[6] Officials urged drivers to reduce speeds and increase following distances. Emergency responses handled multiple incidents tied to the slick pavement.
Outlook Signals Gradual Improvement
Tuesday’s sunshine marked a welcome shift, promising to accelerate the thaw across the capital area. Temperatures climbed modestly, easing some of the chill from the nor’easter’s grip. Still, forecasters eyed residual wind effects into the evening.
Communities began the cleanup process, clearing driveways and monitoring for downed lines. The storm, dubbed Winter Storm Hernando in some updates, tested preparations but highlighted regional resilience.[7]
Key Takeaways
As the D.C. region pushes toward normalcy, the storm serves as a stark reminder of winter’s unpredictability – stay prepared for whatever comes next. What impacts did you face from the snow and winds? Tell us in the comments.
