Update: VDOT advises caution for travelers with Hurricane Florence approaching

With Hurricane Florence shifting in track and potential impacts, VDOT is encouraging the public across the commonwealth to make preparations to avoid travel and expect the unexpected. Portions of Virginia are now under tropical storm advisories.

“Remain vigilant as the storm approaches. Plan now to avoid travel once impacts begin,” said VDOT Commissioner Stephen C. Brich. “Heavy rains and high winds may cause hazardous travel conditions, especially with the ground already saturated in many areas. Once the storm begins, motorists should be alert to flooded roadways, downed trees and loss of power across the commonwealth. By staying off roads, VDOT teams, emergency service providers and utility crews will be able to reach those in need as soon as possible.”

While some forecasts show a southerly storm track, effects of the hurricane could still be experienced widely, with forecasts of rain anywhere from several to 10 inches. Mandatory evacuations remain in place for residents located in Zone A of Virginia.

Updated travel information

Ferry service suspension

• Fredericksburg District – Merry Point and Sunnybank ferry services have been suspended until further notice.
• Hampton Roads District – The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry will operate through 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12. VDOT will suspend ferry service from 8 p.m. to midnight and resume service at midnight.

Tolls suspension/HOV restrictions

• Hampton Roads District – Hampton Roads Express Lanes tolls have been suspended until further notice.
• Hampton Roads District – All HOV restrictions have been lifted on interstates until further notice.
• Hampton Roads District/Fredericksburg District – George Coleman Bridge tolls have been suspended until further notice.

Monitoring sustained winds on bridges

Crews are monitoring levels of sustained winds and gusts at specific bridges and other water crossing locations. If necessary, VDOT will restrict or close travel on facilities due to wind conditions, high water, structural damage, downed trees or debris blocking the roadway.

Information resources

• Get the latest road conditions – call 511, go to www.511virginia.org or download the mobile app at the 511 web site.
• Report downed trees, hazardous road conditions online at my.vdot.virginia.govor call VDOT’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623).
• Prepare for the storm and find out about other VDOT hurricane preparedness efforts – visit www.VDOT.Virginia.gov.
• Traffic information is also available on Twitter @511statewideVA. For general VDOT information, follow @VaDOT.
• VDOT’s Facebook page will also be updated throughout the storm. https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaDOT.