RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR)--Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews and contractors will continue to work around the clock to treat and clear state-maintained routes of snow, ice and debris for the duration of this March storm.
VDOT said their goal is to have all state-maintained roads passable within 48 hours after the winter storm ends.
As of 5 p.m., VDOT says most interstates and primary roads are clear or in minor condition. Wednesday night and Thursday morning, drivers are cautioned to be alert to refreezing as roads that are wet may become icy as temperatures drop.
Drivers are advised to delay or limit travel overnight through early Thursday, if possible, due to the potential for black ice.
Commuters should monitor forecasts and check road conditions before heading out.
Call 511 or visit www.511Virginia.org before you travel for the latest road and traffic conditions. Citizens are reminded that they can report downed trees or other maintenance issues by calling VDOT’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (1-800-367-7623).
VDOT encourages travelers to observe the following precautions:
- Slow down and allow extra time to reach your destination
- Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges
- Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road
- Do not pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary
Snow ended mid-afternoon for most of the Shenandoah Valley, VDOT says.
Roads are rapidly clearing but motorists should still be aware of icy spots and refreezing conditions tonight. High winds have caused downed trees and power lines in Goochland, Hanover, Powhatan and Charles City counties.
Interstate 95 and primary roads are clear to minor in the Fredericksburg area, however, primary road conditions are starting to turn moderate in Essex, King and Queen, and King William counties on the Middle Peninsula as weather moves into the area, says VDOT.
Several secondary roads have been closed in the Fredericksburg district this afternoon due to downed trees, with a brief Route 1 closure in Spotsylvania County due to downed power lines.
For more information about conditions across the state, visit VDOT’s website for traffic alerts (http://www.virginiadot.org/newsroom/news_from_vdot.asp), visit the 511 website (www.511Virginia.org), or call 511.
VDOT also reminds motorists to always use caution when driving during winter weather.
