Snowstorm prompts safety warnings as residents prepare cars, homes and shelters across DC area

WASHINGTON — As a major winter storm approaches the region, experts are urging residents to think beyond stocking up on groceries and snacks and take steps to stay safe once snow, ice and extreme cold arrive.

Forecasters warn the storm could create a dangerous combination of heavy snow, icy roads and frigid temperatures, increasing the risk of accidents, injuries and even death.

Auto shops across the area have seen a rush of drivers preparing their vehicles ahead of the storm.

At Ourisman Auto in Bethesda, service advisor Jackson Perez said, “we have seen [an increase] since yesterday, between yesterday and today, yes.”

Perez said drivers should avoid the roads altogether if possible. But for those who must travel, he stressed the importance of checking tire tread.

“All season tires are good. They’re good for the summer, they’re good for the winter,” Perez said.

For snowy conditions, Perez recommends tires have at least five thirty-seconds of an inch of tread. He also advised drivers to test their car batteries, which are more likely to fail in extreme cold.

“If the car is struggling to start up, two seconds or three seconds later, you should be looking at getting a new battery,” Perez said.

Safety concerns extend beyond driving. Medical experts warn that shoveling snow can place serious strain on the body, particularly for people who are not accustomed to physical exertion.

“It can really put a big strain on your heart and that can lead to circulatory problems in the heart and that’s what leads to a heart attack,” said Dr. Bruce Kaczmarek.

A 2025 Mayo Clinic study found that just 10 minutes of snow shoveling can push the heart to 97% of its maximum capacity.

“It really is important to know what your baseline level of exertion or workout is because if you are not used to doing exercise, shoveling is exercise,” Kaczmarek said.

He added that slowing down, taking frequent breaks and watching for icy footing are critical to preventing injuries.

City officials are also increasing efforts to protect vulnerable residents as temperatures drop.

“We have a number of shelters and additional hypothermia sites,” said Rachle Pierre, director of the D.C. Department of Human Services.

Pierre said the District has expanded shelter capacity from 1,300 to 1,700 beds and can accommodate more people if needed.

“It’s extremely important that our neighbors understand how dangerously cold it is now and it is going to be even colder in the coming days,” she said.

Outreach teams are actively working to get people off the streets. Officials emphasized that shelters are available not only to people experiencing homelessness but also to anyone who loses power or cannot afford alternative accommodations.

“We have the resources to provide a bed to anyone who needs a bed or needs to come in from the cold,” Pierre said.

Officials also urged residents to use caution when heating their homes. Gas-powered generators, furnaces and fireplaces can emit carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled. Proper ventilation is essential.