On the same day we receive the devastating news of Butterstick’s departure, we’re staring down a Winter Weather Advisory for Saturday, with snow accumulations in the order of 2″-4″ possible. Bear in mind that the District will likely see the least amount of actual snow on the ground of any part of the larger metro area, but true to form, the city is making the safe bet on its citizenry freaking right out about it. Here’s what we know so far:

Metro says they are ready! “The transit agency will have up 2,200 tons of bulk rock salt to treat Metro roadways and parking lots, 18,000, 50-pound bags of de-icer for treating sidewalks and platforms and snow-trained employees ready to handle whatever Mother Nature has in store.” Metro may also run empty trains following the system’s closure at 3 a.m., on Saturday, Dec., 5/Sunday, Dec. 6., to keep the rails clear of any possible snow or ice build-up.

The District says they are ready, too! Mayor Fenty’s revised snow removal route plan will be in effect, with a deployment plan for this weekend’s storm that includes 107 heavy trucks, 82 light trucks, and “activation of the salt domes.” (!!) Leaf collection will also be suspended on Saturday so DPW crews can be at the ready.

After the jump, a list of tips from the D.C. government on winter weather safety.

Illustration by Martin Austermuhle