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Northern Virginia residents should prepare before this weekend’s storm arrives, as worsening conditions could disrupt travel, electricity and everyday services.
Charge phones, laptops and portable battery packs. Keep flashlights and extra batteries available instead of relying solely on candles, and set refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings to help preserve food during a power outage.
Bring outdoor furniture, trash cans and decorations inside or secure them. Clear gutters and storm drains only when it is safe, and move vehicles away from trees and power lines.
Households should have two to three days of food, water, medications and pet supplies. Keeping some cash available may also help if outages take card-payment systems offline.
Review weekend plans and work schedules early. Avoid unnecessary travel once conditions deteriorate. Vehicles should carry a blanket, flashlight and phone charger in case drivers become stranded or delayed.
Continue monitoring local weather alerts, county updates, power-company notices and emergency channels. Conditions can change quickly, so preparing early and staying home when possible may reduce avoidable risks.