This weekend, the Metrorail map might look like this:

No, it’s not another drastic budget cut, but Metro’s “snow map.” If this weekend’s snowstorm indeed turns out to be the worst December storm since 1982, Metro could shut down all aboveground service, creating a system about the same size as the rail system we had in 1982.

Metro is taking steps to keep the system open for as long as possible, treating parking lots and roadways and deicing sidewalks and platforms. It is likely that non-revenue trains will be run throughout the night tonight to keep the rails free of snow and ice. Some trains have been fitted with deicing equipment to keep the third rail clear.

Metro has canceled the track work previously planned for the Red and Blue lines.

If snow accumulation stays below 6 inches, Metro will likely operate as usual, though possibly with more delays as trains run more slowly and snow removal equipment will move through the system. Snow intake in the undercar components can cause malfunctions resulting in out-of-service trains.

But should the accumulation of snow exceed 6-8 inches, Metro will likely suspend all above-ground service to protect equipment and will allow the agency to devote more resources to keeping the tracks clear.

Bus riders should check Metro’s website for information on service disruptions. Routes on hills or narrow side streets will close first, with routes on snow emergency routes staying open longest.

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Tagged: snow, transit, weather, wmata

Matt Johnson has lived in the Washington area since 2007. He has a Master’s in Planning from the University of Maryland and a BS in Public Policy from Georgia Tech. He lives in Dupont Circle. He’s a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners, and is an employee of the Montgomery County Department of Transportation. His views are his own and do not represent those of his employer.