(Washington, DC) – With the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasting continued snowfall overnight, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that on Tuesday, January 16, DC Public Schools will be closed. 

The District Snow Team remains activated. When snow accumulation reaches two inches, the Snow Team begins plowing roads. For safety, when driving, keep a safe distance from snowplows; when possible, stay at least three car lengths behind a snowplow.

The District’s Cold Weather Emergency remains activated. Residents are encouraged to call 311 or the Shelter Hotline at (202) 399-7093 to request accessible shelter transport for individuals experiencing homelessness, who may have disabilities, other access and/or functional needs, and are outside. Transportation to shelter is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If there is an immediate risk to safety, dial 911.

Cold Weather Safety Precautions: 

• Stay inside if you can.  
• Cover up and limit exposed skin when you go outside.  
• Check on your neighbors and learn the signs of hypothermia - young children, the elderly, and those with access and functional needs are the most vulnerable in our community.  
• Do not use a gas oven, generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline burning device to heat the inside of your home, basement, or garage.   
• For all animal emergencies, including animals left outside in extreme temperatures, call the Humane Rescue Alliance at (202) 723-5730.  
• For additional cold weather information and preparedness tips, visit ready.dc.gov/winterwx.  

Winter Weather Tips

• Apply abrasives – deicer, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter – on sidewalks. 
• Have enough over-the-counter and prescription medications for your family and pet(s).
• Make sure your gutters are cleared of leaves. You don’t want leaves to block the flow of rainwater that may freeze.
• Turn off all outdoor water faucets.
• Keep your vehicle’s fluids tanks – gas, water, antifreeze and windshield wiper – full.
• Have a flashlight, blankets, and scrapers in your vehicle before a storm begins.

The District Snow Team will continue to monitor the weather forecast and adjust its response as necessary. For more information about DC’s snow program and preparing for winter weather, visit snow.dc.gov. Residents and commuters are encouraged to register for important weather alerts from the District by signing up for AlertDC at alert.dc.gov.

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