Motorists advised to stay off the roads as winter weather moves through western Virginia
Roanoke, Virginia – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is urging drivers to avoid traveling in western Virginia from Tuesday, February 11, into Wednesday, February 12, as another round of winter weather is expected to create hazardous road conditions. Motorists are advised to adjust travel plans before the storm or delay trips until roads are safer.
Dangerous Road Conditions Expected
According to the National Weather Service, a mixture of snow and freezing rain is forecasted for western Virginia, beginning in the early morning hours on Tuesday. Snowfall will transition into freezing rain throughout the day, making road conditions dangerous for travel. VDOT warns that roads will be snow-covered and icy, with travel impacts likely extending into Wednesday, February 12.
VDOT Crews Working to Prepare Roads
In anticipation of the storm, VDOT crews and contractors have already started pretreating interstates and major roads with brine. Motorists are encouraged to give brine trucks plenty of space when encountering them on the road.
As the storm progresses, VDOT’s response teams will work around the clock to keep roads as safe as possible. Their efforts will focus on:
- Interstates and primary highways (routes numbered 1-599), which will be cleared first
- Plowing operations begin once snow accumulates to two inches or more
- Applying chemicals and abrasives to manage freezing rain and ice buildup
Prioritizing Major Routes First
VDOT reminds drivers that its primary focus during the storm will be on high-traffic routes, including interstates, primary roads, and major secondary routes. Equipment operators will make multiple passes over these major roadways to ensure they remain as clear as possible.
However, secondary roads with low traffic volume (numbered 600 and above), neighborhood streets, and unpaved roads will not be treated until precipitation stops and significant progress has been made on major roads.
Caution Urged for Motorists
With the risk of icy roads, limited visibility, and potential road closures, VDOT strongly advises postponing all non-essential travel until conditions improve. Motorists who must travel should:
- Drive slowly and cautiously
- Allow extra travel time
- Stay updated on weather and road conditions
As VDOT crews continue working to maintain road safety, drivers are encouraged to exercise patience and avoid unnecessary risks during this severe winter weather event.
