DC Metro Adapts Service During Historic Blizzard

February 2010 blizzard closed Washington transit, stranded 20 near Frederick, Maryland

East Coast Blizzard Shuts Transit, Strands 20

A massive winter storm battered the eastern United States in February 2010, shutting down Washington's public transportation system and stranding about 20 people overnight in their vehicles near Frederick, Maryland. The blizzard affected tens of millions of people and created record-breaking snowfall totals for Washington, Baltimore, and Philadelphia. More than 8,000 homes in Maryland and Virginia lost power as the storm created snowdrifts reaching six to eight feet high.

Context

The storm marked one of the most severe winter weather events to hit the region in decades, according to transit officials. Washington's Reagan Airport recorded 55.9 inches of snow, nearly four times the annual average of 15 inches. The federal government remained closed for four consecutive days, costing an estimated $100 million daily in lost productivity. Heavy equipment and bulldozers were deployed in Maryland as regular snow plows couldn't handle the massive drifts.

Transit Impact

Washington's public transportation system operated with limited service, with above-ground rail stations closed and only patchy bus routes available. Nearly 6,000 flights were canceled at the height of the storm, marking one of the biggest air travel disruptions since September 11, 2001. The storm resulted in several fatalities, including deaths from a 50-car pileup in Williamsburg, Virginia that hospitalized 60 people. Transit officials said the extreme conditions made it impossible to maintain normal service levels.

Timeline

Schools in the Washington-Baltimore area remained closed through the President's Day holiday as cleanup efforts continued. Forecasters warned of additional snow expected the following Monday, though specific accumulation totals weren't immediately available. Transit officials didn't provide a timeline for when full service would resume on above-ground rail lines.

Rider Impact

Riders faced severe disruptions throughout the storm period, with many unable to reach work or essential services due to transit closures. Officials said the combination of closed rail stations and limited bus routes left many commuters stranded. Moovit provides real-time updates during severe weather events, helping riders navigate service changes and find available transit options.