The Virginia Department of Transportation announced on March 16 that the high wind advisory for the Robert O. Norris, Jr., Bridge on Route 3 over the Rappahannock River between Lancaster and Middlesex counties has been lifted. The advisory had been posted earlier due to severe weather expected in the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula, with travelers urged to check updates through Virginia 511.
The high wind advisory was important because it affected travel safety, especially for high-profile vehicles such as tractor-trailers, box trucks, large vans, and SUVs. Trucks carrying small or empty loads were considered particularly at risk during periods of strong winds.
According to the press release, “VDOT monitors wind speeds at major river crossings in the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula,” including Downing Bridge, Eltham Bridge, Gwynn’s Island bridge, Lord Delaware Bridge, and Norris Bridge itself. If sustained winds reach 30 miles per hour over a period of 30 minutes or there are frequent gusts of 45 miles per hour or greater, VDOT will post a high wind advisory notice on these bridges. When sustained winds reach 45 miles per hour or above over a period of 15 minutes, crews will post a bridge closure notice; however, bridges will not be physically barricaded.
Notices about advisories or closures are communicated through message boards at the bridges as well as VDOT news releases and social media platforms. Travelers can stay informed by checking VDOT Fredericksburg District’s accounts on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook group page.
Virginia Department of Transportation is responsible for building, maintaining and operating Virginia’s roads, bridges and tunnels to support a safe and efficient transportation system according to the official website. The agency manages one of the nation’s largest state highway systems covering tens of thousands of lane-miles across Virginia according to the official website. It also provides services such as highway maintenance and traffic management through systems like Virginia 511 according to the official website.
Virginia Department of Transportation serves as a state agency overseeing planning, construction and maintenance of roadways throughout Virginia according to the official website. The department developed from its origins in the State Highway Commission established in 1906 according to the official website, with headquarters located at 1221 East Broad Street in Richmond according to the official website.
As weather conditions can change rapidly during severe storms, officials encourage drivers—especially those operating larger vehicles—to remain alert for future advisories or closures.
