Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, Department of Public Works Director William O. Howland, Jr., and District Department of Transportation Director Gabe Klein are advising residents to continue to stay home and off District roadways today as up to 12 inches of snow is forecasted to descend on the city.

“Visibility has been a major concern today,” said Mayor Fenty. “Winds are blowing between 20 and 30 miles per hour, with gusts up to 45 miles per hour. Residents need to continue to stay off the roadways and allow full access to the major roadways so snow crews can keep them clear for emergency response, tree removal, and electrical crews.”

This morning the National Weather Service issued a blizzard warning, indicating severe winter weather conditions, lower visibility and stronger winds than a winter storm warning. The warning is in effect until 7 pm today. Snowfall is expected to continue through the evening. High winds may create the possibility of power outages and downed trees.  Residents are reminded to call 311 for all tree emergencies.  Power emergencies should be immediately reported to Pepco at 877-PEPCO-62.

“There are no real transit options,” said DDOT Director Klein. “The best thing is for people to stay home and off the roads for another day.”

Metrobus and DDOT Circulator bus services are suspended.

“The strategic use of front-end loaders, bobcats, backhoes, rolloffs and dump trucks is providing additional capacity to haul snow from residential and major streets,” said DPW Director Bill Howland. “We ask residents to keep tuned into the news for announcements of trash collection and other suspended services.”

The District advises residents and visitors to:

• Stay off the roads even after the storm ends.
• Give the snow plows plenty of room to do their jobs.
• Shovel to keep walkways around your property clear of snow.
• Know your neighbors, especially those who may need your assistance or who can assist you during or after a snow emergency.
• Stay warm but stay safe.
• Cover the windows and spaces around the doors to keep drafts at a minimum.
• Make sure the account information on file with your electric utility is correct. Have the number to your utility handy, should the power go out.