As Winter Storm Jonas churns eastward, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is asking drivers to stay off the roads as the state braces for from one to three feet of snow and freezing rain in some locations.
Travel in Virginia is expected to be “treacherous” as Winter Storm Jonas worsens.According to VDOT, “Driving conditions will be treacherous and motorists are urged stay off the roads during the storm.”
See the latest report on Winter Storm Jonas from the Weather Channel.
In a statement issued this morning (Friday, Jan.22), VDOT said:
“It’s snowing in southwestern Virginia this morning with eight inches of snow in Washington County and the storm is expected to move across the state bringing heavy accumulations. Crews are in full deployment mode, operating around the clock to treat and plow roads.
“VDOT is preparing for total accumulations of one to three feet of snow across Virginia, with sleet and freezing rain in some areas. Two to three inches of snow per hour is expected during the storm beginning today through tomorrow.
You can get updates from VDOT on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaDOT/ and on Twitter by following @VaDOT.
Here are the storm details, according to VDOT:
- In the southwestern and central southern regions of Virginia, roads, including I-81 are in mostly moderate condition with snow or ice covering a major portion of the roadway, passable with caution.
- Crews work to clear interstates and primary roads first, then major secondary roads with vital emergency and public facilities, then other secondary roads and subdivision streets. Crews focus their efforts on those roads that carry the most traffic.
- In Northern Virginia, trucks are pre-staged in subdivisions when two or more inches are forecasted. Throughout the storm, crews work on interstates, high-volume roads, and in subdivisions concurrently.
You can monitor road conditions and view live cameras at 511virginia.org.
In Northern Virginia, when snow reaches two inches or more, visit the online neighborhood tracking map that monitors the status of plowing.
We expect to post updates here and on our Facebook and Twitter accounts throughout the storm. We want to hear from companies that are changing plans because of the storm and to hear from drivers in it when it arrives. Post in the comments below, on our social media accounts or send an email to [email protected]
