As you probably know by now, a massive winter storm is heading through the region this weekend. Forecasters are predicting anywhere from four inches, closer to Fredericksburg and Stafford, to 20 inches, around Leesburg and Purcellville (snow lovers rejoice!), with the possibility of sleet as well.
Here’s the latest on how to prepare for the storm. Plus, see a few ways to make the most of the fresh blanket of incoming snow.
What You Need to Know
🔴 State of Emergency: Gov. Abigail Spanberger announced a state of emergency will be in effect throughout the commonwealth from Saturday through Monday. Residents are asked to stay off the roads to help with the cleanup efforts.
🔦 Time to Prepare: now’s the time to make sure you’re prepared for any emergency. Fairfax County released a list of how to best prepare for the upcoming weather. Tips include building an emergency supply kit, shoveling safety tips, and checking on elderly and unsheltered people.
Stay Safe: If your Sunday and Monday will mainly consist of shoveling, make sure you’re aware of the health risks. Inova physician Dr. Brian Krieger reminds shovelers to take it slow, especially if you’re older, to lower the risk of heart attack and other cardiac problems. Learn more on how to stay safe.
How to Have Fun
🍾 Stock Up: It’s important to stock up on the essentials. No, we’re not talking about milk and toilet paper — we’re talking about wine. Both 868 Estate Vineyards and Endhardt Vineyards is offering 30% off any purchase of six or more bottles through Sunday, January 25.
❄️ Heads Up: The snowball fights in the region can be legendary. And a friendly snowball fight might pop-up in Alexandria on Sunday at 10:30 a.m., according to ALXNow. The Alexandria event has since been canceled, and the DC snowball fight was also canceled on Sunday due to the sleet.
🛷 Need for Speed: Once a few inches of snow start to accumulate, the sledding hills start calling. If your home or neighborhood doesn’t have a sledding-worthy hill, consider taking a trip to one of these popular sledding spots.
🍷 Winter Wines: If you’re looking to get out before the snow barricades you in, make a trip to Cana Vineyards and Winery of Middleburg. The winery is serving a Cold Weather Favorites Flight for $8 that includes three different drinks. If you find a drink that you like, take advantage of the 20% off bottles.
🥾 Icy Views: NoVA’s hiking trails are beautiful during any season. But the winter snow takes it to a new level. If you’re thinking about braving the cold, consider heading to Great Falls Park for icy waterfalls or Mount Vernon trail for a variety of views. Find more hiking options here.
☃️ Winter Thrills: In case the storm ends up being a bust, there are still plenty of places to get your sledding fix. Massanutten Resort, Snow Riders, and more nearby resorts have adrenaline-pumping snow tubing hills to try out this winter.
From the Archives
🌨️ Whiteout Conditions: 2026 marked the 30th anniversary of the 1996 blizzard that covered the area with 30 inches of snow. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and reminisce about the historic snowstorm as the region is hit with one of the biggest storms in recent years. Watch as former NBC4 meteorologist Bob Ryan shares his thoughts on the blizzard.
Feature image, Michael Geissinger/stock.adobe.com
