VDOT crews continue assessing roads following flooding, prep for this week's snow

BRISTOL – As Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews continue efforts to assess roadways following flooding in the region, they are also preparing for snow to hit Southwest Virginia beginning overnight tonight into Wednesday and Thursday (February 19- 20).

As of February 18, approximately 80 routes remain impacted by flood waters in the 12-County VDOT Bristol District.

“As waters recede, crews are checking the routes for damages and reopening routes that are in good shape,” VDOT Bristol District Engineer Tabitha Crowder, P.E., said. “We have done initial assessments of bridges but will need waters to recede to fully assess bridges and culverts for needed repairs.”

Anticipated snow totals for Southwest Virginia range between 2 and 8 inches, with the highest snow totals in the northern counties such as Wise, Dickenson and Buchanan counties.

Brine operations took place today on I-81 in Washington, Smyth and Wythe counties and I-77 in Bland and Wythe counties. Motorists should monitor local forecasts for the latest information and are advised to check conditions along their entire route as snow totals will vary greatly throughout Virginia. Where possible, postpone unnecessary travel to allow crews the time and space they need to clear snow from area roadways.

Temperatures following the storm are anticipated to be below freezing until Saturday, creating the possibility of packed ice on some roads which will be slow to melt.

Local updates about conditions in VDOT’s Bristol District are posted on X, formerly Twitter, at @VaDOTBristol. Visit VDOT’s winter weather page for more information about winter weather preparations and response.