When you see snow, driving is a no go

RICHMOND —  A winter storm system has arrived in Virginia and will continue to linger over the commonwealth through Wednesday morning. Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews are working to plow and treat roads as conditions warrant.  

Snow is impacting most of the commonwealth. Additionally, a wintry mix with freezing rain will fall in most areas of central and southern Virginia this afternoon and into the evening. The greatest impacts of the freezing rain could occur in areas along and west of the Blue Ridge including areas surrounding Bristol, Salem, Staunton and Lynchburg. Conditions can quickly turn treacherous, and drivers need to stay off the roads during and just after the storm. Monitor local forecasts for specific timing and weather details. Heavy, wet snow and ice could lead to trees falling on the roadway, which should be reported to VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center at my.vdot.virginia.gov or 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623). 

The cooperation of motorists staying off the roads during and following the storm is critical for crews to operate safely and efficiently. 

VDOT is responsible for snow removal on all state-maintained roads, while all cities and some towns maintain their roads, including Arlington and Henrico counties. VDOT may support cities and towns, if requested. Snow removal priorities are as follows: 

• The Interstate Highway System and limited-access roadways are VDOT’s first priority.  
• Primary roads (routes numbered 1 to 599) and major secondary roads (routes numbered 600 and up) with vital emergency and public facilities, or those with high-traffic volumes, will be cleared along with interstate and limited-access roadways as resources allow.  
• Low-volume secondary roads and subdivision streets will be treated after higher-priority routes are completed and additional resources are available.  

Visit VDOT’s Districts webpage for more details in your area. 

If travel is absolutely essential, check roadway conditions by using VDOT’s free 511 mobile app, which offers information about road conditions, traffic, incidents, construction and congestion as well as access to traffic cameras, weather and more. Information is also available at 511.vdot.virginia.gov or by calling 511 while in Virginia. 

For questions or to report hazardous road conditions such as downed trees or power lines, contact VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or calling 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623).  

For more about winter weather travel, visit VDOT’s weather page.