A high wind advisory has been issued for the Downing Bridge, which carries Route 360 traffic over the Rappahannock River between Richmond County and the Town of Tappahannock. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) warns that high-profile vehicles, including tractor-trailers, box trucks, large vans, and SUVs, should avoid crossing the bridge during this period. Trucks with small or empty loads are considered especially vulnerable.
According to VDOT guidelines: “If sustained winds reach 30 mph over a period of 30 minutes, or there are frequent wind gusts of 45 mph or greater, VDOT will post a high wind advisory notice.” The department further states: “When sustained winds reach 45 mph or above over a period of 15 minutes, VDOT crews will post a bridge closure notice. However, bridges will not be physically barricaded.”
Notices about high wind advisories and possible closures will be displayed on message boards at the bridges.
Motorists seeking updates on lane closures, work zones, traffic conditions, and other incidents can use the resources provided by 511Virginia. A free mobile app is available for Apple and Android devices to help drivers stay informed. Additionally, motorists can call 511 when not operating a vehicle or while using hands-free devices to comply with state law prohibiting handheld device use while driving.
