VDOT: Have patience as crews continue snow cleanup

Crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation have worked steadily overnight to remove up to 30 inches of snow from the interstates and primary highways of central Virginia.

At this hour Interstate 64 is in minor condition, with snowy and icy patches on the road surface. I-66 in Fauquier County is in moderate, snow-covered condition. Primary roads also remain snow-covered, with some primaries in Fauquier reported as severe, or partially blocked by the accumulated and drifted snow. In all nine counties of VDOT’s Culpeper District, secondary routes are partially blocked.

VDOT asks drivers to continue to stay off the roads to avoid hazardous conditions and allow crews to clear snow and ice as efficiently as possible.

With the storm over and high winds diminishing, crews will begin gaining ground with snow-removal efforts. While their goal is to make all state-maintained roads passable within 48 hours after a storm ends, this was an extreme storm and in some cases will require specialized equipment to address. Plows may not reach some secondary roads — especially in rural areas or subdivisions — for another 24 to 48 hours, possibly longer.

Stay abreast of road conditions by calling 511 or visiting 511Virginia.org. Additional information about VDOT’s winter-weather preparations and response can be found at www.virginiadot.org/travel/snow.asp.