Daleville, Virginia – Daleville Town Center witnessed a picturesque yet challenging scenario on a recent Monday afternoon. The entire area was gently blanketed with snow, creating a winter wonderland. This serene image was visible everywhere, from the parking lots to the trees, and even atop buildings. However, this beautiful sight also brought with it certain challenges, particularly concerning road safety and travel.
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), fully aware of the potential hazards, issued an important advisory. They recommended that residents avoid using the roads if possible. The rationale behind this advice was straightforward – safety first. Snow, while enchanting, can make road surfaces treacherous, increasing the risk of accidents.
For those who found it necessary to venture out, VDOT advised extreme caution. They suggested driving well below normal speeds and avoiding overtaking snow plows and VDOT trucks. These vehicles play a crucial role in maintaining road safety during such conditions, and impeding them could have negative consequences for all road users.
VDOT spokesperson Jen Ward emphasized the hidden dangers of winter roads. “Even if you see a road that is wet, there may be ice under there. Temperatures are going to continue to drop this evening, we may see some freezing,” she explained. This statement highlights the deceptive nature of winter roads. What appears to be merely wet pavement could actually be a slippery layer of ice, a phenomenon known as black ice, which is notoriously difficult to spot and extremely hazardous.
Proactively addressing the situation, VDOT had already treated major highways and roads on Monday. Their efforts were not just a one-time action; crews were set to work tirelessly around the clock to keep these paths clear. This relentless effort underlines VDOT’s commitment to ensuring road safety and accessibility even in the toughest winter conditions.
