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The D.C. National Guard is assisting wiht snow and ice removal efforts across the District of Columbia following a request from Mayor Muriel Bowser. The deployment aims to clear hazardous conditions, particularly around schools and in surrounding neighborhoods, as students have returned to in-person learning.
Manny walkways remained covered in snow and ice as of Thursday, posing risks to pedestrians despite sub-freezing temperatures preventing natural melting. National Guard members were observed clearing a bus stop on H Street Northeast on Friday evening, supplementing efforts by the Metro to clear bus shelters. NBC Washington reported on parental concerns regarding these conditions.
“Our priority is to ensure that District students and educators can return to a safe learning environment as quickly as possible,” stated U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Leland Blanchard,interim commanding general of the D.C. National Guard,in a news release from the D.C. National guard. All guard members participating in the mission are equipped with specialized cold-weather gear.
It is worth noting that National Guard troops were previously deployed to D.C.in 2021 following the january 6th Capitol attack, as part of a broader security plan during the Trump administration.
MedStar Reports Increase in Injuries Due to Icy Conditions
Local hospitals, including MedStar Health, are reporting a surge in injuries related to slips and falls on icy sidewalks. Dr. Candice Jordan, chair of emergency medicine for Medstar Health, explained that the hard-packed snow increases the velocity of falls, leading to more severe injuries. “Because it’s so slippery, you’re falling with so much more speed and velocity,” Jordan said. “So yes, you’re hitting the ground harder. For our elderly patients, you’re much more likely to break things.Broken hips, wrists are the most common thing we see in the older population. Our younger folks, we’ll be seeing a lot of ankle fractures.”
Salt distribution Pop-Ups Available This Weekend
The District of Columbia is offering salt pick-up locations for residents this weekend to help with independent snow and ice removal. Residents are required to bring their own containers (bags, boxes, or buckets) and gloves.
Salt will be available during the following time windows: 9 a.m.