Old Dominion News

Travel conditions in the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands have worsened due to heavy snowfall on Tuesday, February 11. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has advised delaying travel as crews work around the clock in 12-hour shifts to manage the situation.

The storm may bring sleet and freezing rain, contributing to hazardous driving conditions. "Numerous crashes have occurred on local roads during the day," a statement noted. Residents are urged to stay off the roads and allow snow removal teams to perform their duties.

Travelers should be aware that bridges and overpasses will freeze first, and falling tree limbs could pose additional hazards due to heavy snow or ice accumulation.

As of 5:30 p.m., road conditions were reported as follows:

- Interstate 64: Moderate in Alleghany, Rockbridge, and Augusta counties.

- Interstate 66: Minor in Warren County.

- Interstate 81: Moderate in Rockbridge and Augusta counties; minor in Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Frederick counties.

- Primary roads: Moderate in Highland, Bath, Alleghany, Rockbridge, and Augusta counties; minor in Rockingham, Shenandoah, Frederick, Clarke, Warren, and Page counties.

- Secondary roads: Moderate in Highland, Bath, Alleghany, Rockbridge, and Augusta counties; minor in Rockingham, Shenandoah, Frederick, Warren, Clarke, and Page counties.

VDOT prioritizes clearing the Interstate Highway System first. Major secondary routes with emergency facilities or high traffic volumes follow when resources permit. Low-volume secondary roads will be treated once higher-priority routes are cleared.

For updates on road conditions marked as minor or moderate due to snow or ice coverage—or severe if drifting occurs—residents can visit VDOT's updated website at https://511.vdot.virginia.gov/. The site offers traffic cameras and weather condition reports. Additional information is available on VDOT's main website by searching for "winter weather."

The VDOT Customer Service Center provides assistance via its mobile-friendly site at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov/ or by calling 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623). Social media updates can be found on Twitter @VaDOTStaunton or through VDOT's Facebook page.