Continuous snow removal efforts underway across Virginia to restore road safety
Virginia – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is actively plowing and treating roads across southwest Virginia following a powerful winter storm that has created hazardous conditions. Freezing rain remains a major concern, with an ice storm warning in effect until Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Dangerous Road Conditions Persist Across Virginia
Despite VDOT crews working around the clock, interstates and primary roads (routes numbered 1-599) still have slick spots and icy patches. Secondary roads and residential streets (routes numbered 600 and above) remain challenging, with icy spots even on plowed routes.
The deepest snowfall in years has buried roads in the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands, where some areas received up to a foot of snow from Tuesday’s storm. Many low-volume secondary roads in residential areas are still covered in snow.
Motorists are strongly advised to stay off the roads, as additional wintry precipitation is expected Wednesday afternoon, potentially bringing an icy layer to already plowed roads.
Read also: Motorists advised to stay off the roads as winter weather moves through western Virginia
VDOT Crews Work to Clear Roads
VDOT snowplow operators have been working nonstop to keep major travel lanes passable. Overnight efforts focused on:
- Interstate 95 and other major highways
- Primary roads and high-volume secondary roads
- Plowing and treating neighborhood streets where possible
As snow gradually tapers off, VDOT teams are shifting their focus to:
- Clearing road shoulders, turn lanes, and crossovers on major routes
- Plowing and treating subdivision streets and low-volume roads
- Monitoring conditions and responding to fallen trees or roadway debris
VDOT crews and contractors from the Staunton District are working 12-hour shifts, ensuring that plowing and road treatment continue nonstop.
Freezing Rain and Ice Pose Ongoing Hazards
While the storm’s heavy snowfall has begun to diminish, freezing rain remains a significant threat. Icy conditions could worsen overnight, particularly in:
- The Fredericksburg area
- The Northern Neck
- Parts of the Middle Peninsula
Residents in these areas are urged to delay travel until conditions improve, preferably waiting until later Wednesday when temperatures are expected to rise above freezing.
How to Report Road Hazards
VDOT is urging residents to report downed trees, fallen branches, or other roadway debris by contacting their 24-hour Customer Service Center at:
- 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623)
- my.vdot.virginia.gov
Stay Safe and Avoid Travel
With snow-covered roads, icy patches, and ongoing winter precipitation, drivers should avoid unnecessary travel. VDOT will continue working nonstop to clear and treat roadways, prioritizing interstates and key primary routes before moving to residential streets.
For the latest updates on road conditions, visit 511.vdot.virginia.gov and monitor local weather reports.
