Monday, Jan. 28 - Loudoun County Schools Closed / Drive Safely

Today's inclement weather has caused Loudoun County Public Schools to close today, Monday, Jan. 28, due to inclement weather, with administrative offices opening at noon.

Federal employees living in Loudoun County don't have to get on the roads early this morning. Federal employees have a delayed arrival. The Office of Personnel Management is recommending that employees should remain off the roads until 10:00 am. Federal offices in the Washington, DC, area will open at noon. Employees have the option for unscheduled leave or unscheduled telework.

Loudoun County Traffic is recommending that unless you have to get on the roads this morning, that you stay home or wherever you may be. Allow time for VDOT crews to treat area roadways, and public safety personnel to respond to emergencies in a more timely manner.

If you must be out, here are a few tips for driving on icy/slippery roads from Edmunds.com:

• Make sure you can see -- clean your windshield and rear window before getting on the road. And be sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid. Also, run the air-conditioner. In order to remove condensation and frost from the interior of windows, engage your air-conditioner and select the fresh air option: It's fine to set the temperature on "hot." Many cars automatically do this when you choose the defrost setting.
• Turn on your headlights. Use your headlights so that others will see you, and you can have better visibility.
•  Remember the proper braking technique -- Stomp, stay and steer. Stomp on the pedal as if you were trying to snap it off. Stay hard on the pedal. Steer around the obstacle. 

How Stuff Works adds these reminders:

• Be aware that bridges and overpasses freeze first. Slow down before reaching them and avoid sudden changes in speed or direction.
• Watch your speed. Don't go too fast, but also, don't go too slow. The car will need some momentum to be able to push through heavier snow without getting stuck.
• Steer clear of trucks. They are heavier than cars and need considerably longer stopping distances. Their tires also tend to spray snow and rain into parallel lanes, further hindering your visibility. 

The most comprehensive list of winter driving tips can be found here.

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Icy Road Conditions Today

Be careful if you're out and about this morning. The overnight freezing rain has closed Loudoun County Public Schools today, Friday, February 1, due to the inclement weather.

Here's some driving tips from VDOT if you are going to be on the roads this morning:

• Before you begin your trip, know the current road conditions and weather forecasts. Visit Loudoun County Weather for a detailed forecast.
• Make sure your windows, mirrors and lights are clear of ice and/or snow.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Allow extra time to travel to your destination.
• Be aware of potentially icy areas such as bridges, overpasses and shady spots. Also, if there is heavy snow, ice or high winds, be alert to potential driving hazards including downed branches, trees and electric lines.
• Reduce speed as appropriate and keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and snowplows.
• Keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car. The kit should include a small bag of rock salt, sand or cat litter to provide traction in case you get stuck, a snowbrush and ice scraper, a flashlight, battery booster cables, a blanket and extra clothing.
• Practice common sense. Remember that your car cannot start, stop, or turn as quickly and surely on snow or ice as it does on dry pavement, so think and drive accordingly.

For a complete list of Virginia closings and delays, visit WTOP Radio.

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