Heavy snow is falling across central Virginia and highways throughout the region are snow covered and slippery. The Virginia Department of Transportation is advising residents to stay off the roads during the storm, which is expected to continue until Sunday morning. Along with snow accumulations up to three feet, high winds, drifting snows and fallen trees will create treacherous driving conditions.
Roads across the nine counties of VDOT’s Culpeper District are snow covered and in moderate condition. Traffic is light and vehicles are traveling at reduced speeds due to conditions.
VDOT crews and contractors are working on Interstate 64, I-66, primary highways and high-volume secondary roads to keep them passable. Driving conditions are expected to deteriorate through the night as temperatures fall well below freezing and the snow intensifies.
VDOT will concentrate its efforts on the interstate and primary systems while the storm continues. Once those roads are in good condition the crews will shift onto the secondary system (roads numbered 600 and above) and neighborhood streets. VDOT’s goal is to have all state-maintained roads passable — though in some cases, still snow-covered — within 48 hours after a storm ends.
Motorists should avoid all but emergency travel during and immediately after the storm. Having fewer vehicles on the road will help plows do their job quicker. Be prepared to shelter in place with supplies to last several days.
Use VDOT’s free 511 tools to monitor road conditions and live traffic camera feeds. Additional information about winter-weather preparations and response can be found at www.virginiadot.org/travel/snow.asp.
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Chris Graham
