Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger declared a State of Emergency today (Thursday), as the D.C. region steels for what could be its biggest snowstorm in years.
With the National Weather Service predicting significant snowfall starting Saturday night (Jan. 24), Spanberger and other state officials urged residents across the Commonwealth to make preparations now to stay at home throughout the weekend and potentially into the coming week.
“The declaration will allow state agencies to be prepared for impacts all across the Commonwealth,” Spanberger said at a press conference. “We are expecting large amounts of snowfall, freezing rain and sleet, and we are also expecting Virginia will experience dangerously low temperatures, power outages and unpredictable road conditions.”
The Virginia Department of Transportation started pre-treating roads with brine today and will deploy crews and close to 10,000 pieces of equipment throughout the state to clear snow, ice and any roadway obstructions, according to VDOT Commissioner Stephen Birch.
Interstates and primary roads will be prioritized, so some neighborhood roads might not see a plow for 24 to 48 hours after snow stops falling, he warned. Fairfax County officials blasted VDOT officials last year after some residents complained about lingering icy and slushy conditions following an early January storm that dropped six to 10 inches of snow.
The Virginia National Guard will also mobilize troops to assist with the emergency response, coordinating with state and local agencies, said Spanberger, who took office less than a week ago.
“I am asking all Virginians to spend this time getting prepared for this incoming storm, and then, I am asking all Virginians to stay off the roads, as of Saturday night, all day Sunday through Monday morning,” the governor said. “This will allow not only for the safety and security of our neighbors, but it will allow for faster clearing of roads and greater safety during what we expect will be the most dangerous times on the roads.”
John Scrivani, state coordinator for the Department of Emergency Management, advised community members to make sure emergency alerts are activated on their phone and check on neighbors who might need help, “especially those that are elderly or have special needs.”
The state of emergency declaration has also triggered Virginia’s laws prohibiting post-disaster price gouging, Attorney General Jay Jones announced.
The statute bars suppliers from raising prices significantly for “necessary goods and services,” including water, food, generators, home repair materials, batteries and tree removal services.
“The basic test for determining if a price is unconscionable is whether the post-disaster price grossly exceeds the price charged for the same good or services during the ten days immediately prior to the disaster,” Jones’s office said in a press release.
Any price-gouging complaints can be reported to the attorney general’s office or the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for cases involving gas prices.
Extreme cold could start tomorrow
On top of a Winter Storm Watch that anticipates at least five, but potentially over 10 inches of snow between 7 p.m. on Saturday and 7 a.m. Monday (Jan. 26), the National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory set to take effect at 8 p.m. tomorrow (Friday) through 10 a.m. Saturday.
The agency warns that wind chills could drop as low as 8 degrees below freezing, raising the risk of hypothermia. Dangerously cold temperatures are expected to persist throughout next week.
“Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves,” the advisory says.
🥶 Cold Weather Advisory in effect 8 PM Friday through 10 AM Saturday.
Dangerously cold wind chills as low as 8 below zero are expected and could lead to hypothermia if precautions aren’t taken. Limit time outdoors and dress in warm layers, including a hat and gloves. Stay safe! pic.twitter.com/OYsSyi6X91
— Ready Fairfax (@ReadyFairfax) January 22, 2026
Metro announced that it has canceled track work that was scheduled to take place this weekend in response to the stormy forecast.
Fairfax County’s emergency department shared several tips to help community members prepare for the coming storm. Residents should avoid travel, use salt judiciously, check on neighbors, have an emergency supply kit ready and make plans for removing snow.
With extremely cold temperatures expected, the county advises calling the local police department’s non-emergency phone line (703-691-2131) with any concerns about someone who doesn’t have shelter and may be at risk of hypothermia.
The county’s seasonal Hypothermia Prevention Program is currently underway, operating overnight sites at permanent shelters as well as a rotating series of faith communities.
While most Fairfax County roads are managed by VDOT, the Town of Herndon has its own crews tasked with removing snow from streets.
“Prior to the storm, we are asking residents and businesses to move cars off of roads and cul-de-sacs so the town’s snow plows can get through,” the town said in a message detailing its snow preparations. “Please make sure the right-of-way in front of your property is clear.”
Herndon noted that property owners and tenants are responsible for clearing sidewalks in front of their properties within 24 hours after snow falls.
The full message from the Town of Herndon:
Snow is in the forecast for Saturday and Sunday of this week. Prior to the storm, we are asking residents and businesses to move cars off of roads and cul-de-sacs so the town’s snow plows can get through. Please make sure the right-of-way in front of your property is clear.
Once the storm gets under way, Town crews will focus on main and secondary roads to ensure access for emergency vehicles. Neighborhoods will be cleared as soon as possible once arterial roads are passable.
Property owners and tenants must clear snow from sidewalks along their property within 24 hours after snowfall. Please do not shovel snow into the streets or block storm drains or fire hydrants. If you’re able, please help keep sidewalks clear for neighbors who can’t, especially seniors or people with disabilities.
Information on town operations and closings, including the Herndon Community Center, will be provided as it is determined.
Power outages should be reported directly to Dominion Power, 1-866-DOM-HELP or www.dom.com. Prepare for outages by charging electrical items such as phones, laptops and other devices in advance, and by keeping them charged.
For updates on town snow operations, visit the town’s website at www.herndon-va.gov or our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/herndon.gov. In an emergency, call 911.
