County Operating Status for March 25
County and School Status
• Fairfax County Government offices are open on time today, Monday, March 25.
• All Fairfax County public school programs and activities that are being held during Spring Break will begin two hours late today, Monday, March 25. All offices will open on time. Morning field trips are cancelled. School Age Child Care (SACC) centers will open by 7:15 a.m. Adult and community education classes will start on time.
• The Fairfax County Circuit Court, General District Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts are open.
Parks, Community and Recreation and Community Centers
• If you have questions about Park Authority facilities, contact the site directly, call the Parks inclement weather line at 703-324-8661, TTY 711, or visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
• For Department of Neighborhood and Community Services programs and events visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs or call 703-324-4600, TTY 711.
• The Reston Community Center and the McLean Community Center may be affected by the inclement weather. Call RCC at 703-476-4500, TTY 711, http://www.restoncommunitycenter.com or MCC at 703-790-0123, TTY 711, http://www.mcleancenter.org for their current operating status.
Transportation: Connector, Fastran
• Fairfax Connector bus service may be affected by the inclement weather. Check the Connector Web page at http://www.fairfaxconnector.com for the current operating status.
• For information about FASTRAN, call 703-222-9764, press 8; TTY 711, or online at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs/fastran.htm.
Libraries
• Library hours may be affected; call your local branch before visiting. For branch phone numbers, call 703-324-3100 or go to http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library.
View the public meetings calendar at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/calendar/ShowCalendar.aspx for any potential cancellations of public meetings of Fairfax County government Boards, Authorities or Commissions.
County Operating Status for March 7
Posted 4:45 a.m.
County and School Status
• Fairfax County Government offices are open today, Thursday, March 7, with no unscheduled leave.
• All Fairfax County public schools will open two hours late today. All offices will open on time. School Age Child Care (SACC) centers will open on time.
• The Fairfax County Circuit Court, General District Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court are open today.
Parks, Community and Recreation and Community Centers
• If you have questions about Park Authority facilities, contact the site directly, call the Parks inclement weather line at 703-324-8661, TTY 711, or visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
• For Department of Neighborhood and Community Services programs and events visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs or call 703-324-4600, TTY 711.
• The Reston Community Center and the McLean Community Center may be affected by the inclement weather. Call RCC at 703-476-4500, TTY 711, www.restoncommunitycenter.com or MCC at 703-790-0123, TTY 711, www.mcleancenter.org for their current operating status.
Transportation: Connector, Fastran
• Fairfax Connector bus service may be affected by the inclement weather. Check the Connector Web page at www.fairfaxconnector.com for the current operating status.
• For information about FASTRAN, call 703-222-9764, press 8; TTY 711, or online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs/fastran.htm.
Libraries
• Library hours may be affected; call your local branch before visiting. For branch phone numbers, call 703-324-3100 or go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library.
View the public meetings calendar at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/calendar/ShowCalendar.aspx for any potential cancellations of public meetings of Fairfax County government Boards, Authorities or Commissions.
Wind Advisory in Effect This Evening; Proper Shoveling Techniques
Though the winter storm warning has been cancelled for Northern Virginia, a wind advisory is in effect until 11 p.m. tonight. Gusts of up to 50 mph are possible, with the strongest winds along and east of I-95. The winds may bring down more tree limbs and power lines and could make driving challenging, particularly in high-profile vehicles. Temperatures are expected to be above freezing tonight, but there is still a possibility of icing in some locations. If you must be out on the roads, please keep the wind and other conditions in mind and travel with caution.
Some parts of the county received very heavy, wet snow today. Anyone planning to shovel should should remember that in addition to the weight of the snow, cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s advice about shoveling snow or otherwise exerting yourself in the cold. This video offers tips and techniques for safe shoveling.
Four Things to Know for the Snow
Posted 12:45 p.m.
Current National Weather Service forecast as of 10:30 a.m.
A winter storm is coming our way. The map to the right from the National Weather Service shows the forecasted snow accumulations through Thursday morning. Depending on your location in the county – from Mount Vernon in the east to Chantilly in the west — accumulations may vary.
To prepare for the storm:
1.) Power Outages: Be ready for power outages. The predicted heavy, wet snow and strong winds could lead to numerous outages.
- Report any power outages. You can find phone numbers for utility companies and other organizations on our emergency phone numbers page.
- Have a battery-operated radio.
- Get your phones and tablet devices charged. Be digitally prepared.
- Be ready with flashlights and extra batteries.
- Make alternative plans if you or a family member need power for medical purposes.
2.) House Supplies: Get the supplies you need today while the weather is still calm. Get the basics you need for your household (expect long lines at grocery stores!), but especially focus on prescription or over-the-counter medicine you may need. Check in on neighbors or elderly friends who may need something.
3.) Road Snow Removal: When the snow begins to fall, removal on most county roads is handled by the Virginia Department of Transportation. Keep an eye on its new snow plow map so you know the status of snow removal operations. VDOT is deploying 4,000 trucks in Northern Virginia; learn more about VDOT’s plan for Wednesday and why staying off the roads will be important.
4.) How You Can Help With Snow Removal: Here are 10 tips to think about and plan for in your neighborhood to remove the snow. This snow will be very heavy to shovel, so older adults and those with heart conditions should seek help.
The National Weather Service also provided these best and worst case scenario maps:
Power Outage in Mount Vernon Area
Posted at 12:33 p.m.
There is a power outage onMount Vernon Highway between Stephies Ct. and Sunny View Dr. due to a vehicle accident. Restoration is expected by 5 p.m. For additional information, call Dominion Power at 866-366-4357.
Absentee Voting Today, 4-8 pm; Extended Hours Wednesday
Posted 4:13 p.m.
The Fairfax County Electoral Board announced there will be absentee voting at the Government Center only today, Tuesday, Oct. 30 (not seven other satellite locations) from 4 to 8 p.m. Anyone in line at 8 p.m. will be able to absentee vote. Absentee voting will resume at the seven satellite locations tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 31 with extended hours noon to 8 p.m. and at the Government Center with regular hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Suite 323.
Food Safety After a Power Outage
An electrical power outage will affect the safe storage of refrigerated and frozen foods. Perishable foods such as meat, poultry, seafood, milk and eggs that are not properly refrigerated or stored, and frozen food that thaws, may cause illness if consumed. In order to protect these perishable foods from spoilage, follow the guidelines listed below. When the power goes out:
- Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. The refrigerator will keep foods cold for 2-4 hours if it is unopened. Full freezers will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (1/2 full 12 hours) if the door remains closed. These times may vary depending on age of the unit, condition of the seals, temperature setting and amount of food.
- Digital, dial, or instant-read food thermometer and appliance thermometers will help you know if the food is at a safe temperature.
- Before eating perishable refrigerated foods (milk, cheeses, eggs, meats, fish, or poultry) be sure to check their temperature. Foods that are 41º F or below can be eaten and are considered safe. Foods that are above 41ºF for more than 2 hours must be discarded. Do Not Eat. Don’t trust your sense of smell. Food may be unsafe even if it doesn’t smell bad.
- Thawed food can usually be eaten if it is still 41º F or re-frozen if it still contains ice crystals or is below 41º F. You have to evaluate each food item separately. Partial thawing and refreezing may reduce the quality of some food, but the food will remain safe to eat.
- If the power is out for longer than 4 hours, use dry ice. 25 pounds of dry ice will keep a ten cubic foot freezer below freezing for 3-4 days. Handle dry ice with care and wear dry heavy gloves to avoid injury.
- Follow the golden rule of food safety, “When in Doubt, Throw it Out”, for any foods which you are not sure have stayed at a safe temperature or which do not look or smell as they should.
For more information on food safety after a power outage, visit the health department’s website, http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/alert/emerg/emerinfofood02.htm, or call the Fairfax County Health Department at 703-246-2444.
New Real Time Road Closures Map
Posted at 11:41 p.m.
Fairfax County’s new road closures map features real time data about incidents impacting travel throughout the county.
A text version of the road closure page will also be updated throughout the storm.
If you have to head out on the roads be sure to check your route first.
Belle View/New Alexandria Flooding Possible
Posted 10:30 p.m.
Belle View/New Alexandria residents should prepare for the possibility of flooding in their neighborhood tomorrow afternoon or evening. If you live east of Fort Hunt Road, west of the George Washington Parkway, south of Belle Haven Road and north of Wake Forest Drive, you are in the areas the county is checking.
County engineers are monitoring the situation. If flooding is imminent and an evacuation is required, you will be called and public safety personnel will knock on your door.
A shelter has been established at the Lee District RECenter, 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria. Directions can be found at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/maps/parkmaps_lee.htm.When you are evacuating, please bring:
- A three-day supply of special items for any older adults, people with disabilities or infant members of your household, including assistive equipment.
- Special diet food, esp. if you have food restrictions/allergies.
- Change of clothing for each family member.
Pets – Animal Control will have a mobile van to shelter companion animals (cats and dogs) affected by the evacuation at the Lee District RECenter, 6601 Telegraph Road. Do not bring the pet’s toys and food. Dogs must be on a leash and cats must be in a carrier.
Travel Safely: Turn around, don’t drown – Never drive through standing water on a roadway — turn around, don’t drown. Water may be much deeper than you think.
Once you are in a safe location, let a family member or friend know your whereabouts.
For additional information or questions, call the emergency hotline at 571-350-1300, TTY 711.
County Road Closures for Hurricane Sandy
Posted 8:20 p.m.
Twenty three roads are closed in the county right now due to flooding, high water and downed trees. More closures will likely follow. Please view this special road closure page that we will update throughout the storm.
More importantly, please stay off the roads if you can. If you must be out, “turn around, don’t drown” if you encounter flooded roads.
County Road Closures for Hurricane Sandy
Posted 3:37 p.m.
Nine roads are closed in the county right now due to flooding, high water and downed trees. More closures will likely follow. Please view this special road closure page that we will update throughout the storm.
More importantly, please stay off the roads if you can. If you must be out, “turn around, don’t drown” if you encounter flooded roads.
No County Trash Collection on Tuesday
Posted 12:09 p.m.
Fairfax County trash collection for residents in sanitary districts will be cancelled on Tuesday, Oct. 30, due to weather conditions. Residents receiving Tuesday trash collection service from Fairfax County are asked to keep trash containers away from the curb. Please continue to check the emergency blog for updates on when trash collection will take place.
If you have private trash collection, contact your service provider for service details.
Hurricane Sandy Monday Morning Update
Posted 4:30 a.m.
County Government Status
- Fairfax County Government Offices — Closed Monday, Oct. 29 and employees are granted emergency administrative leave. Emergency service personnel should report as scheduled. Tuesday, Oct. 30— At this point, the government will be open with unscheduled leave for employees. If the weather changes, the status will be reassessed Monday night.
- The Fairfax County Circuit Court, General District Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court— Closed Monday, Oct. 29.
- Fairfax County Public Schools — Closed Monday, Oct. 29, and Tuesday, Oct. 30. All Fairfax County Public Schools offices will be closed on Monday as well. School Age Child Care (SACC) centers are closed.
- Absentee Voting— Cancelled Monday, Oct. 29
- Trash Pickup for residents who live in Solid Waste Collection Areas (Sanitary Districts) — Scheduled for regular service Monday, Oct. 29.
- View complete cancellation information.
Emergency Information Hotline
The Fairfax County Emergency Information Hotline has been activated and is available for residents to call for information about the storm. The number is 571-350-1300. For an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Weather Forecast
Fairfax County has declared a state of emergency. This dangerous storm will affect us countywide with flooding, power outages, traffic issues, downed trees damaged buildings and more throughout the county.
The most significant impact will be Monday morning to Tuesday morning. The storm should completely leave the area by Wednesday afternoon.
- Winds: 30-55 mph sustained with gusts to 70 mph.
- Rain: 4-8 inches with the majority in the 24-hour period from Monday morning to Tuesday morning.
Flooding
As the rain increases, we absolutely need you to follow this advice if you have a need to be outside:
- Turn around, don’t drown if you have a need to drive. Never drive through standing water on a roadway — turn around, don’t drown. Water may be much deeper than you think.
- Do not allow children to play near creeks or other bodies of water that may rise rapidly.
- If you live in low-lying areas that have flooded before, move vehicles to higher ground. Try to avoid parking under trees when possible. Move any valuables from the basement, especially if your basement has flooded before.
High Winds
A high wind warning is in effect from 8 a.m. Monday to 8 p.m. Tuesday.
- Bring in all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, Halloween decorations and other items so they do not blow away or pose a threat to property or people.
- Remove dead limbs on trees that could fall on your property (home, car, land).
Power Outages
It’s very likely many parts of our community will lose power and you may be without power for days. Please be prepared with emergency supplies, cash on hand, fill your gas tank and have a plan in case you need to find a new place to stay.
- Save important phone numbers to your phone or write them down, especially your power company. Always report a power outage.
- If you have a generator or plan to buy one, please be familiar with safety tips.
- View tips from Dominion Virginia Power and NOVEC.
Neighbors and Neighborhoods
Emergency response is one of the most important responsibilities of local government, but government alone can’t respond. Families, neighborhoods, businesses, houses of worship and many others in our large, diverse community must be prepared, at a minimum, to be self-sufficient for three days.
Try and connect with neighbors so you can seek or give support when it may be needed:
- Talk to your neighbors about how you can work together during an emergency.
- Find out if anyone has specialized equipment like a power generator, or expertise such as medical knowledge, that might help in a crisis.
- Decide who will check on elderly or disabled neighbors.
- Make back-up plans for children in case you can’t get home in an emergency.
- Share plans and communicate in advance.
Stay Informed
- Share this blog post with your family/friends/coworkers and ask them to subscribe to posts by email. This blog will provide updates throughout the storm.
- Sign up for our Community Emergency Alert Network text/email updates that will provide weather alerts and other critical information.
- If you use social media sites, then follow us on Facebook or Twitter. Be an information ambassador for us and share/retweet updates. If using Twitter, help us see local tweets by using the hashtag #ffxstorm
- Keep up to date with local conditions – follow TV and radio reports from your area, or visit http://www.weather.gov (http://mobile.weather.gov on your phone) for the latest forecast.
- Download our county mobile apps with emergency information and get the American Red Cross “Hurricane” app – Android, Apple.
Storm Recovery Update from the Emergency Operations Center
Posted 3:30 p.m.
County Executive Ed Long and Dave McKernan, Emergency Management Coordinator, speak to the continuing recovery as a result of Friday’s storm, power outages and the ongoing heat wave.
View the latest list of closures and delays.
Library Due Dates Extended to July 9
Posted: 1:40 p.m.
Because of storm-related library branch closings, items due between June 29 – July 8 are now due July 9. Customer records have been adjusted to reflect the new due date.
Stay Informed
