Home McAuliffe urges Virginians to prepare for major winter storm
Virginia

McAuliffe urges Virginians to prepare for major winter storm

Chris Graham

virginiaGovernor Terry McAuliffe today urged Virginians to prepare for a major winter storm, which could result in up to one foot of snow in southeast Virginia, with snowfall totals in other areas of the state ranging from one to ten inches. Wind gusts of up to 35 mph and freezing temperatures are expected and heavy snow could result in power outages on Saturday as well.

“With this forecast in mind, all Virginians should take the necessary precautions now to ensure they are prepared for travel disruptions and possible power outages during a cold weather period,” said Governor McAuliffe. “Please check on neighbors, especially the elderly and those who are unable to leave their homes, as well as family and friends to ensure they are ready for this storm and any possible inconveniences or interruptions that may result.”

“Our public safety agencies are taking actions now to respond to this winter storm,” stated Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran. “The Virginia Emergency Support Team, coordinated by VDEM, is working with our local government partners to preposition resources and additional capabilities to ensure the safety of residents across Virginia.”

“VDOT has been pre-treating roads in advance of the storm.  We are prepared with crews, equipment and materials and will work throughout the storm to plow roads,” said Transportation Secretary Aubrey Layne.“Driving conditions during the storm are expected to be hazardous and motorists are urged to stay off the roads until the storm passes.”

 

Checklist: Winter storm prep

  • Stay off the roads during the storm unless travel is absolutely necessary. If travel is necessary, drive with caution and allow extra space around other vehicles. Let someone know where you are going, the route you are taking and when you expect to arrive so that if something happens while traveling, someone knows where to send assistance.
  • Use extreme caution around slow-moving equipment being used to treat roads, such as snow plows.
  • Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter and is in safe driving condition. Keep an emergency kit in your car. Include items such as jumper cables, blankets, first aid kit, water, non-perishable food, cat litter or sand, shovel, flash light and batteries, ice scraper and cell phone charger.
  • Bring pets inside from the cold.
  • If you have power-dependent medical equipment, make sure all batteries and extra batteries are fully charged. Know where to go if you lose power during or after the storm. If you aren’t sure where to go, dial 2-1-1 for a list of shelters or charging stations that may be open in your area.
  • Be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for at least 72 hours, in case roads are blocked and/or there are power outages.
  • Have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio and extra batteries for emergency information. Listen to local weather forecasts and instructions from local officials.
  • If you need help, information or resources during the storm, call 2-1-1. Those with hearing impairments can call 7-1-1 for the Virginia Relay Center and then call 1-800-230-6977. Out of state or videophone users may also dial 1-800-230-6977 for assistance.
  • Download the free Ready Virginia mobile app at: http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/additional-resources/mobileapp.
  • Download the free VDOT 511 mobile app for updates on road conditions at:http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/511.asp.

 

For more information on the Commonwealth’s response efforts, visit http://www.vaemergency.gov.

Chris Graham

Chris Graham

Chris Graham, the king of "fringe media," a zero-time Virginia Sportswriter of the Year, and a member of zero Halls of Fame, is the founder and editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1994 alum of the University of Virginia, Chris is the author and co-author of seven books, including Poverty of Imagination, a memoir published in 2019. For his commentaries on news, sports and politics, go to his YouTube page, or subscribe to his Street Knowledge podcast. Email Chris at [email protected].

Latest News

Sports

5 Best Betting Apps For The Jake Paul Fight In Texas

Sports

5 Best Betting Apps For The Jake Paul Fight In Florida

Jake Paul returns to the ring on Saturday, June 28 to face Julio César Chávez Jr. in what could be the biggest test of his career. Florida sports fans looking to bet on the Paul vs Chávez fight will need to use offshore sportsbooks, since boxing betting is limited to in-person options. This guide breaks...

Education, Local

New Staunton Schools Superintendent Dr. Eric Irizarry looks to build on ‘solid foundation of success’

Staunton School Board announces the appointment of Eric Irizarry as superintendent of Staunton Schools, effective July 1, 2025.

Arts, Local

Staunton: Consulting firm works to integrate gender equity into productions of Shakespeare’s plays

nathan bain waynesboro high school
Education, Football, Local

Waynesboro High School names Nathan Bain new head football coach

ben james uva golf
Olympic Sports

UVA Golf: Three-time All-American Ben James named to 2025 Walker Cup team

train tracks
Local, Police

Developing: Train carrying hydrochloric acid derails in Augusta County