Arlington County Declares Local Emergency Ahead of Winter Storm

Arlington County Manager Mark Schwartz signed a Declaration of Local Emergency for Arlington County in response to the winter storm forecasted to impact the region this weekend.

The impacts of the storm and prolonged sub-freezing temperatures are likely to create hazardous conditions that could result in power outages, make travel nearly impossible, and cause peril to life and property. The declaration goes into effect on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026.

A declaration of a local emergency allows the County to formally and quickly request additional resources from the state and federal governments, as available, to assist in response and recovery efforts.

Arlington remains under a Winter Storm Warning from 11 p.m. Saturday to 4 a.m. Monday, with heavy mixed precipitation expected, per the National Weather Service (NWS). Snow and sleet accumulations could total between 6 and 10 inches, with up to 14 inches possible.

Arlington's declaration follows Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger declared a State of Emergency in advance of the winter weather.

Stay informed throughout the storm by signing up for Arlington Alert at ArlingtonAlert.com and visiting the County website.

On social media, you can follow the Department of Environmental Services on Bluesky, X, Facebook, and Instagram for the latest updates on the County’s snow progress.

Media Contact

Ryan Hudson
rhudson@arlingtonva.us

View this release in our newsroom