Photo by andertho

Trains, buses and Capital Bikeshare are all offline today, but D.C.’s taxicab fleet is still rolling. So if you really need to get somewhere today, there’s that.

But it’s gonna cost a bit more than usual. With Hurricane Sandy laying its wet and windy barrage, the D.C. Taxicab Commission is implementing a $15 flat fee on all rides originating in the District today. The charge, which went into effect at noon, is in place for 24 hours, though the city’s emergency condition could well be extended.

Cabbies will be required to display the Snow Emergency placard used during blizzards and to verbally inform riders that the additional fee is in effect.

Interestingly enough, by adding a $15 surcharge to all fares, D.C.’s cabs are currently offering the same price range as Uber. The sedan-by-smartphone company says some of its vehicles are on the road today, and that it is currently charging its normal rates. Uber fares have a minimum charge of $15, plus metered costs for time and distance.