Severe Weather

Many people rely on Metro to get where they need to go, regardless of the weather, which is why we do everything possible to provide safe and reliable transit service during inclement winter weather.

Metro has hundreds of pieces of snow equipment available to tackle snow and ice at stations, rail yards, parking garages, and bus facilities. Hundreds of employees and contractors can be called upon to respond to snow conditions.

During periods of severe weather, Metro may limit or curtail service for safety reasons. Review the information below to know what to expect.

What to Expect During a Winter Storm

Metro Rail

Will Metro Rail operate in the snow?

Yes, Metro Rail can operate a normal schedule in light to moderate snow. In extreme weather, service may be suspended for safety. Service decisions are based on a number of different factors. Service will only continue if conditions are safe to operate. For more information, see Metro Rail Snow Service.

How do I find out whether Metro Rail is running service?

Customers can find up-to-the-minute service information via the MetroPulse app, by visiting wmata.com, or by signing up for MetroAlerts to receive service updates via text and/or email. Information is also available at x.com/metrorailinfo.

How frequently will trains run during the storm?

Metro will attempt to operate as close to normal service as conditions allow and will deploy de-icer trains and snowplows as needed. During heavy snow, customers may experience longer wait times, delays and in extreme cases, possibly service suspension.

How is Metro preparing for snow?

Metro starts preparing months in advance for inclement weather. During and after storms, staff will clear snow at station entrances, sidewalks, bus roadways, and rail platforms at above-ground stations.

Metro Bus

How is bus service affected by winter weather?

Metro Bus service may be modified during snow, freezing rain, sleet, or ice. Impacts may include route detours, reduced frequency, or temporary route suspensions. Each individual bus route faces unique challenges, such as narrow streets, hills, and/or tight turns, which could make them difficult to navigate. Service may deteriorate as weather and travel conditions worsen.

How can I find out the latest status of my bus route?

Customers can find the status of each bus route at wmata.com/snow. Each route status will be labeled as Regular Service, Snow Detour, or Temporarily Suspended. Snow detour maps are also listed on that page. Route status can also be found on the MetroPulse app, and on x.com/metrobusinfo.

How will bus service be restored?

Metro aims to restore bus service as soon as streets become passable. Service will be restored on a route-by-route basis. Visit wmata.com/snow for the latest information.

Service may need to be modified during snow, freezing rain, sleet, and/or ice.

Metro Access

Will Metro Access trips continue to be scheduled during snow events?

Metro Access operates during inclement weather, but service may be modified throughout the day as road and walkway conditions deteriorate. If conditions become unsafe, Metro Access may transition from door-to-door operations and move to curb-to-curb operations and/or fully suspend service if conditions warrant until it is safe to resume regular service.

Do customers need to cancel their own trips?

Customers will be notified if Metro Access cancels trips due to weather. Customers may also cancel trips in advance if they choose not to travel, which is encouraged for non-essential travel needs.

How will customers learn about service changes?

Metro Access customers will receive robocalls and text messages regarding service. Modifications may include canceling curb-to-curb service, canceling out bound service, or suspending all service.

Stay Informed During Winter Weather Events

Subscribe to MetroAlerts to receive email and/or text messages notifying you of Metro Rail, Metro Bus, and Metro Access service disruptions and status.
Follow @wmata, @metrorailinfo and @metrobusinfo on X or @wmata.com, @metrorailinfo, @metrobusinfo on Bluesky.
Visit wmata.com and use our MetroPulse app before you start your trip to track next bus and train arrivals.
Contact our Customer Care team at 202-GO-METRO (202-466-3876, TTY 202-962-2033), M-F 7 am - 8 pm; Sat-Sun 8 am - 8 pm. Automated information is available 24/7.
Listen to radio and/or television traffic and weather reports.

Winter Travel Tips

Customers are urged to use caution when walking on exposed, wet surfaces, including parking lots, stairs, sidewalks, bus stops, and station platforms, as they may be slippery.
Never run for a bus or train.
Avoid non-essential travel. Snow and ice may create hazardous conditions, delays, and increased wait times.
Before you start your trip, find out how Metro is serving your area and don't let yourself get stranded once you're out.
Dress warmly as you may be outside longer than normal.
If snow is blocking the curb, wait on the sidewalk. Do not wait in the street for the bus.
Report any unsafe conditions to a Metro employee.
If you need assistance or if there is an emergency while traveling on Metro, contact Metro Transit Police at 202-962-2121, and/or send a text message to MyMTPD (696873), and/or call 911. You may also find a Metro employee for assistance.

Metro Equipment

23,000 bags of de-icer for treating sidewalks and platforms
116 snow brushes
114 tractors
96 snow blowers
85 trucks with plows
18 larger trucks
9 salt domes with 300+ tons of bulk salt