Old Dominion News

A winter storm is set to bring sleet and freezing rain to parts of western and northwestern Virginia, beginning this evening. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Piedmont region, with precipitation expected through Thursday morning. The advisory warns that freezing rain may lead to icy roads during the Thursday morning commute.

"Do not travel during this storm," authorities caution. Motorists who must be on the road Wednesday evening are advised to monitor local weather forecasts and road conditions, driving with extreme caution as temperatures fall below freezing. Pavement temperatures are also anticipated to drop significantly, leading to ice accumulations up to one-quarter inch by Thursday morning. Icy spots will likely appear first on bridges, overpasses, ramps, and shaded areas.

In response, VDOT crews in Culpeper District's nine counties will work overnight Wednesday into Thursday morning. If freezing rain and sleet occur, plows will spread salt and sand to improve traction and melt ice after precipitation begins. Brine will not be used since initial rainfall would wash it away.

Residents and motorists are urged to plan travel ahead of time by checking road conditions and preparing an emergency car kit. They should follow forecasts closely and limit travel based on prevailing conditions.

Motorists can visit 511.vdot.virginia.gov or call 511 for updated information on road conditions. It is recommended to check conditions along entire travel routes as they may vary across different regions of the state.

Local updates about VDOT’s Culpeper District can be found on X.com/VaDOTCulp and the Culpeper District Facebook page. Additional information regarding winter weather preparations is available on VDOT’s winter weather page.

VDOT’s Culpeper District encompasses Albemarle, Culpeper, Fauquier, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Madison, Orange, Rappahannock counties as well as the independent city of Charlottesville which maintains its own roads.