VDOT: Crippling snow on the way

The Virginia Department of Transportation is strongly advising all motorists to avoid travel in the Shenandoah Valley area on March 6.  Up to 16 inches of snow is predicted for some Valley areas with the potential of 30 mile-per-hour wind gusts.

VDOT crews will be out 24-hours-a-day on 12-hour shifts for this weather event.  The agency has prepared its snow removal fleet and supplies for the storm.  Additionally graders and other heavy equipment will be readied and pre-staged to assist road crews in keeping the roads open. Wreckers are also pre-staged to assist in removing disabled vehicles from travel lanes.

However it is strongly advised to avoid travel in the Shenandoah Valley during this weather event.  Plow workers need a clear path to keep the snow off the road at the predicted high rate of accumulation.  People are asked to shelter in place on Tuesday and remain off the roads until the storm has stopped.

Motorists who do become disabled are advised to make sure snow is free of the vehicle exhaust system, which can easily be covered during high snowfall rates.

Information resources on roads and road condition can be found at www.511Virginia.org

For winter weather road conditions go to 511Virginia.org look to the left side of the page and click on the “Road Conditions” bar.  A map will appear with color coded roads.  Right above the map is a link reading: “Click here for a list of road conditions, including secondary roads”.  Click on this link, then in the drop-down box click on the desired county or Virginia statewide.  A text box of road conditions will appear.  Traffic cameras are also available on the 511 site. Road conditions definitions:

• Severe – drifting or partially blocked road.  Snow tires or chains are necessary.
• Moderate – snow or ice on major portions of the roadway.  Snow tires or chains are advisable.
• Minor – bare pavement except for isolated spots of snow, ice or slush.  Driving with caution is recommended.

Visit Travel Center for traffic alerts on travel.  Also visit News Room, Releases, Staunton for local news releases.  General winter weather information:  Winter Travel Info

1. Call 511 for road conditions.
2. VDOT customer service center:  800-367-7623 (800-FOR-ROAD)

Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511.

Apps for 511 are available for iPhone, iPad and Android devices.