WAVY.com

‘No safe way to travel in icy conditions’: VDOT warns against driving today

RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) — VDOT officials are urging motorists to delay travel over the weekend due to ice causing very hazardous travel conditions.

VDOT officials say crew a re currently working to treat and clear roads, however, reezing rain, sleet and cold pavement temperatures are expected to continue through Saturday evening, and travel conditions will remain hazardous in many areas.


“A difference in just a few degrees of air or ground temperatures will determine if ice or snow accumulates on roadways,” a release from VDOT Saturday afternoon stated. ” Less traveled roads, shady spots, ramps and bridges are likely to freeze first.”

Gov. Ralph Northam issued Executive Order 76 establishing a State of Emergency for Virginia and the National Weather Service issued an ice storm warning as winter weather sweeps across the Commonwealth.

Many parts of Virginia saw snow, a wintry mix or rain on Thursday night and Friday morning. More ice is expected in the Central region on Saturday, causing the potential for traffic issues and power outages.

The state of emergency went into effect Thursday and will remain in effect until Saturday, March 13 unless the governor opts to amend or rescind the warning.

WAVY News 10 Meteorologist Casey Lehecka says rain/ freezing rain will continue through this afternoon, tapering in the evening. But it will be very tricky to say exactly where that changeover will be.

Sick of the rain yet? Unfortunately, still more to come by Sunday. The morning will be dry with an overcast sky but the rain moves back in through the afternoon.

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According to James City County Police, a tree has fallen across the road in the 4900 block of Fenton Mill Road taking down a power line. The road is impassable. VDOT and Dominion Energy have been notified, but there is no estimated time for the road to reopen.

Storm Tips:

Resources:

If you cannot avoid driving during or after the ice storm AAA gives the following checklist to help ensure driver safety:

In addition to ice on the roads, be mindful of where you park your vehicle as ice storms can cause trees to fall. Downed trees can also affect traffic patterns, secondary roads can have much more issues like uncleared ice and fallen limbs to be aware of.