Stafford County Winter Storm Fern Update 1

On Thursday, January 22, 2026, Governor Abigail Spanberger declared a State of Emergency for the Commonwealth. The Governor and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) ask that residents stay off the roads once snowfall begins to allow VDOT space to clear the roads as quickly as possible and first responders to get to emergency calls.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Stafford County from 11 pm Saturday, January 24, through 4 am on Monday, January 26. Residents are strongly encouraged to act now to prepare enough supplies to stay at home once the snow begins. Stafford is expecting heavy mixed precipitation with total snow and sleet accumulations of 9-12 inches and ice accumulations. Wind gusts of up to 22 mph are also expected on Monday.

Estimates for ice accumulations range from .25 inch to one inch as a worst-case scenario. Ice, especially on the higher end of that range, will cause several days of power outages. The electric companies will not only have to replace lines, they will have to replace infrastructure, including poles. If you see a downed power line, never touch it. You may report it to Dominion Energy at 1-866-DOM-HELP (366-4357) or NOVEC at 1-888-335-0500.

NWS has also issued a Cold Weather Advisory in effect from 8 pm Friday, January 23, 2026 - 10 am Saturday, January 24, 2026. Extreme cold temperatures are forecasted to begin tonight and continue through the middle of next week with subzero wind chill values expected during overnight hours. Please provide warm shelter and water for outdoor animals and pets. Wear layers and limit outdoor exposure to prevent hypothermia.

Micah Ministries will be opening an emergency snow shelter in the City of Fredericksburg at Fredericksburg Baptist Church for unhoused men and women after the community dinner on Saturday, January 24. It will remain open day and night through the storm. For more information, please visit Micah Ministries website.

Now is the time to finish preparations. Residents should be prepared to shelter in place for at least three days with enough food, water and medication for all household members including pets. For preparedness tips please visit our Winter Weather Preparedness Page. This link also contains information on how to sign up for Stafford Alert where you can choose to receive severe weather notifications and other emergency updates. Please visit www.staffordcountyva.gov/emergency for updates and information for Winter Storm Fern. Decisions for any changes to government operations will be published on this page. For updates on Parks and Recreation activities and closures or cancellations, please subscribe to Stafford Alert.

The Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court will be closed on Monday, January 26.

Any DMV-identified identification or driver's licenses expiring this week will be extended for 30 days according to the state of Virginia.