Motorists in the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands are being advised to prepare for potentially hazardous driving conditions on Friday morning as another round of winter weather is expected. According to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), light to moderate snow will begin by sunrise and move into the region from the south, with accumulations ranging from half an inch to several inches. The highest snowfall totals are forecasted for Alleghany, Bath, Rockbridge, and Highland counties.
VDOT crews began pre-treating roads Thursday morning and plan to finish by late afternoon. Drivers are encouraged to check their routes using 511 Virginia before traveling, as snow amounts will differ across the state. Elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses may become icy first.
“VDOT advises motorists to postpone travel if possible until temperatures rise and conditions improve on Friday afternoon. Roads may become slick again Friday evening into Saturday morning as temperatures drop into the 20s.”
The Staunton District of VDOT will prioritize plowing and treating interstates first, followed by primary roads (routes numbered 1 to 599) and major secondary roads with key infrastructure or high traffic volumes. Other secondary roads and subdivision streets will be addressed once higher-priority routes are cleared and resources allow.
Travelers can access updated traffic alerts through 511 Virginia by phone, website, or mobile app. The service provides real-time road condition updates via a color-coded map and county-by-county listings.
VDOT’s Customer Service Center operates around the clock for roadway users needing to report hazards or request information related to transportation in Virginia.
The Staunton District covers Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany, and Bath counties.
