ordeal. reporter: an epic traffic disaster. thousands of cars brought to a standstill by that massive storm dropping a foot of snow on the d.c. region. overwhelming road crews and trapping thousands of people. the elderly, kids, and pets in their cars. a sea of static red taillights in freezing temps. overnight, nbc washington s news chopper. some folks stuck in vehicles overnight with little food and water. reporter: no restrooms. a 50-mile stretch of i-9d 5 from care line county to dunphries. we re doing the best we can. there are people who need assist