As the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) continues to evaluate road conditions after recent flooding, preparations are underway for an expected snowfall in Southwest Virginia. The snow is forecasted to begin overnight and continue through Wednesday and Thursday.
Currently, about 80 routes in the 12-County VDOT Bristol District are still affected by floodwaters. “As waters recede, crews are checking the routes for damages and reopening routes that are in good shape,” stated VDOT Bristol District Engineer Tabitha Crowder, P.E. Initial bridge assessments have been conducted, but further evaluation will require water levels to decrease.
Snowfall predictions indicate accumulations between 2 and 8 inches across Southwest Virginia, with higher amounts expected in northern counties like Wise, Dickenson, and Buchanan. Brine operations have been carried out on I-81 through Washington, Smyth, and Wythe counties as well as I-77 in Bland and Wythe counties.
Motorists are advised to stay informed via local forecasts and check road conditions before traveling since snow accumulation will vary across the state. Unnecessary travel should be postponed to allow road crews adequate time to clear snow from highways.
Following the storm, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing until Saturday. This could lead to packed ice on some roads that may not melt quickly.
