Photo by Chris Militzer/Miliman12 Photography
Alexandria City Hall in the snow.
The winter weather outlook for Northern Virginia has changed slightly from predictions earlier this fall.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association’s (NOAA) winter weather forecast, temperatures will be warmer than average with a slightly higher chance for precipitation in the northern part of the country, which includes the D.C. metro area.
“Without either El Nino or La Nina conditions, short-term climate patterns like the Arctic Oscillation will drive winter weather and could result in large swings in temperature and precipitation,” said Mike Halpert, deputy director of NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.
That means we could get some major bursts of cold air, but whether that will coincide with precipitation resulting in snow is to be determined.
However, AccuWeather predicts this winter will be an active one for snowstorms, ice storms, or mixed events for the Northeast area.
Local news stations WUSA9 is calling for below-average snowfall inside the Beltway and east of I-95 but above average snowfall in the northern and western suburbs. The station also predicts that there will be a few short bursts of cold weather but that overall, temperatures will be slightly above average.
The Farmer’s Almanac is calling for "frosty, wet and white" conditions this winter and above average temperatures, with the coldest period coming in late January into early February.
The Farmer’s Almanac mirrors the NOAA’s predication that the weather this winter will feature unpredictable swings in temperature. The Almanac calls it a “Polar Coaster” because of the ups and downs expected on the thermometer.
While there is some disagreement on temperature, nearly all of these sources agree that there will be a number of storms this winter — it's just not clear if those will be mainly rain, snow or a gross mixture.
Prepare Now
The Alexandria-based Outdoor Power Equipment Institute is reminding homeowners that now — before it snows — is a good time to take out the snowthrower. (Also, it's a good time to buy an extra shovel or two, before they sell out!)
Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI, said a lot of people don’t think to read the manual or be prepared until the night before a major storm. For example, if the snow thrower has gotten blocked in the back of the garage or shed, pull it out now, make sure the old fuel is drained and all the components are in working order.
In the local climate, where summers can be hot and humid, fuel tanks can get condensate in them, which can ultimately damage the engine. For the same reason, it’s important to use fresh fuel and not the fuel that’s been stored in the shed since last winter.
The day before a predicted snowstorm, be sure to walk the driveway, sidewalk, and any other area you plan to plow to pick up sticks, dog toys and other items that can damage or clog your machine.
Here are some additional tips from OPEI on snow removal safety:
Do you have a clean out tool or stick? NEVER put your hands inside the auger or chute. Use a clean out tool (or stick) to unclog snow or debris from your snow thrower.
Do you turn off your snow thrower if you need to clear a clog? Always turn off your snow thrower and wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop before clearing any clogs or debris.
Do you use your snow thrower in visible conditions? Never operate the snow thrower without good visibility or light.
Can you aim your snow thrower with care? Never throw snow toward people or cars. Do not allow anyone to stand in front of your snow thrower. Keep children or pets away from your snow thrower when it is operating.
Will you use extreme caution on slopes and hills? Do not attempt to clear steep slopes and use caution when changing directions on slopes or inclines.
Do you know where your cord is? Use an extension cord that is weather-resistant and designed for outdoor use. If you have an electric-powered snow thrower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times. Avoid tripping. Do not run over the power cord.
Are pets and children inside while the snow thrower is operating? Kids and pets may love to play in the white stuff, but it’s best to keep them inside your home and supervised (by someone else) while you are using your snow thrower to clear a path or driveway. Do not allow them to play in the snow as it is tossed out of the snow thrower’s chute.
