Stephen C. Brich, P.E. Commissioner | Virginia Department of Transportation
Stephen C. Brich, P.E. Commissioner | Virginia Department of Transportation
FREDERICKSBURG – A high wind advisory has been issued for the Norris Bridge, which carries Route 3 traffic over the Rappahannock River between Lancaster and Middlesex counties. This advisory is specifically aimed at high-profile vehicles, including tractor-trailers, box trucks, large vans, and SUVs, which are advised against crossing the bridge. Trucks with small or empty loads are particularly vulnerable under these conditions.
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is actively monitoring wind speeds at several major river crossings in the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula. These include the Downing Bridge on Route 360 over the Rappahannock River between Richmond County and Tappahannock; the Eltham Bridge on Route 30/Route 33 over the Pamunkey River connecting West Point and New Kent County; Gwynn's Island on Route 223 over Milford Haven connecting Mathews County with Gwynn's Island; and the Lord Delaware Bridge on Route 33 over the Mattaponi River connecting West Point and King and Queen County.
According to VDOT guidelines, a high wind advisory is posted when sustained winds reach 30 mph for a duration of 30 minutes or if there are frequent gusts of 45 mph or more. During such advisories, it is recommended that high-profile vehicles refrain from using these bridges.
Should sustained winds reach or exceed 45 mph for at least 15 minutes, VDOT will issue a bridge closure notice. However, physical barricades will not be erected at these bridges during closures.
Information regarding high wind advisories and bridge closures will be communicated via message boards placed at each bridge location. Travelers planning to embark on journeys are encouraged to consult "511Virginia" for real-time updates on road closures or partial closures due to flooding or other hazards.
The "511Virginia" service can be accessed through a free mobile app available for Apple and Android devices or by visiting their website at "511Virginia.org". Motorists within Virginia can also obtain information by calling "511".
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