Federal Offices in DC, NoVA Closing Early Due to Severe Weather

Mandatory exit time of 2 p.m. as region braces for heavy storms and potential tornadoes

Mar. 16, 2026 at 5:51pm

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Federal agencies in the Washington, D.C. region have authorized early departure for most employees on Monday, with a mandatory exit time of 2 p.m. due to the threat of severe thunderstorms and potential tornadoes across 52 Virginia counties. Non-telework employees physically at the office will be dismissed by 2 p.m. and receive weather and safety leave, while telework-ready employees must finish the workday from home.

Why it matters

The early closure of federal offices in the nation's capital and surrounding areas is a precautionary measure to protect the safety of government workers as the region braces for dangerous weather conditions, including the possibility of damaging winds and tornadoes.

The details

According to the Office of Personnel Management, non-telework employees physically at the office will be dismissed by 2 p.m. and receive weather and safety leave for the remaining hours of their scheduled shift. Telework-ready employees currently at the office will receive weather and safety leave only for the time necessary to commute home, after which they must finish the workday by teleworking or using other forms of leave. Emergency employees are required to remain at their designated worksites unless they receive specific instructions from their respective agencies.

  • The early departure policy goes into effect on Monday, March 16, 2026.
  • Federal offices must close by the mandatory exit time of 2 p.m.

The players

Office of Personnel Management

The federal agency that oversees human resources management for civil service of the federal government.

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What’s next

Federal employees are encouraged to verify their specific agency status and follow the procedures mandated by their supervisors to ensure compliance with the early departure policy.

The takeaway

The early closure of federal offices in the Washington, D.C. area is a necessary precaution to protect government workers from the threat of severe weather, including the possibility of damaging winds and tornadoes. This decision highlights the importance of prioritizing employee safety and preparedness in the face of extreme weather events.