01/24/2026
Declaration of Local Emergency: Front Royal and Warren County Prepare for Significant Winter Storm
FRONT ROYAL, VA – In response to an impending winter storm forecast to impact the region, local officials have issued a Declaration of Local Emergency for the Town of Front Royal and Warren County, VA. This declaration will officially take effect at 7:00 PM on Saturday, January 24, 2026, and will remain in place until formally rescinded.
The Situation:
A powerful winter system is expected to bring significant snow and hazardous conditions beginning Saturday evening. Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for the entire area from Saturday evening through Monday morning. A strong winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow with a possibility of sleet or freezing rain. Snow is expected to move into the area Saturday night between 8–10 PM. At times, the snow could fall heavily, with rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. Total snow amounts of 10 to 14 inches are possible. During the heaviest snowfall, visibility could drop to ¼ mile or less, making travel very dangerous. Snow should taper off by 4–6 AM Monday morning. Ice should be light at around 0.05 of an inch.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect from 8 PM this evening until 10 AM Saturday for western Virginia. Wind chills as low as 8 below zero are expected. These dangerously cold conditions can quickly cause frostbite or hypothermia if proper precautions are not taken, especially with prolonged exposure or uncovered skin. Weather patterns are allowing Arctic air to move south into the region. Because of this, several rounds of very cold temperatures are expected, and some daily temperature records for cold daytime highs and overnight lows may be broken.
This emergency declaration allows local government to mobilize necessary resources, coordinate with state agencies, and adjust public services to ensure the safety of all residents.
Directives for Residents:
Officials urge all community members to take this storm seriously. The following directives are currently in place:
Travel Restrictions: Residents are strongly urged not to travel once the storm begins. Road conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly and may remain hazardous for several days.
Preparedness: Ensure you are prepared for long-term power outages and potential loss of telephone or internet services.
Communication: Sign up for RAVE Alerts (the local mass notification system) to receive real-time updates. Sign up at http://www.getrave.com/login/warrencountyva
"The safety of our residents is our top priority. We ask that everyone remains off the roads to allow our snow removal crews and emergency responders to work effectively. Please check on your neighbors and ensure your household is ready for extreme cold."
County of Warren, VA
Town of Front Royal, Virginia
Warren County Virginia Sheriff's Office
Front Royal Police Department
