VDOT preparing for possible weekend winter storm

The Virginia Department of Transportation has begun anti-icing operations throughout the Staunton District in advance of Friday’s forecast winter storm. A mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain are possible from early Friday afternoon to Saturday evening.

VDOT crews and contractors are using salt brine to pre-treat Interstates 81, 64 and 66 as well as key primary routes. This work is expected to continue through Thursday evening. Motorists are advised to remain a safe distance from anti-icing trucks, which travel slower than posted interstate speeds.

Drivers should closely monitor weather forecasts and road conditions, and allow for extra travel time or consider delaying trips. VDOT crews will be on duty to watch for precipitation and developing road conditions.  Crews will begin to immediately treat roads as needed.

Motorists should keep in mind the following safety tips:

• Keep your car’s windows, mirrors and lights clear of snow and ice.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges.
• Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road.
• Don’t pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary. Treat these as you would emergency-response vehicles.
• Drive smart and pay close attention. Don’t text and drive – it’s a secondary offense in Virginia.

For winter weather road conditions go to www.511Virginia.org, look at the orange bar on the top of the page and click on “Text Views” and then click on “Road Condition Table”. Look at the pull down box that lists all jurisdictions.  In this box individual counties can be chosen to view.

Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511. Traffic alerts and traveler information also are available at 511Virginia.org. For other assistance call the VDOT Customer Service Center, available 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week. Citizens can dial 1-800-FOR- ROAD (1-800-367-7623) from anywhere in the state to report road hazards, ask transportation questions, or get information related to Virginia’s roads.

The Staunton District Twitter feed is at @VaDOTStaunton. VDOT can be followed on Facebook, Flickr,Twitter and YouTube. RSS feeds are also available for statewide information. The VDOT Web page is located at www.VirginiaDOT.org.

The VDOT Staunton District serves Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany and Bath counties.