Snowfall is underway in Hampton Roads as a winter storm impacts the region. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is advising drivers to stay off the roads for their own safety and to allow crews to address road conditions.
Snow accumulation is expected to increase overnight into Sunday morning. High winds and very cold temperatures are likely to make roads even more hazardous during this period. Forecasters warn that gusty winds combined with light, fluffy snow could create whiteout conditions and limited visibility for motorists.
VDOT advises that if travel cannot be avoided, drivers should slow down, plan for extra travel time, and leave ample space between vehicles. Drivers are also reminded not to pass plow or treatment trucks and to keep at least 100 feet behind these vehicles for safety.
When snowfall reaches levels suitable for plowing, VDOT crews will first focus on major routes, including interstates, state-maintained primary roads (routes 1-599), and major secondary roads (routes 600 and above) that serve emergency facilities or have high traffic volumes. Lower-volume secondary roads and subdivision streets will be addressed after priority routes are cleared and as resources permit.
Additional VDOT crews remain ready to respond to downed trees, branches, or debris caused by the storm. Strong winds, snow, and possible tidal effects may also cause temporary suspension of service on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry.
VDOT maintains all interstates, major state-maintained primary routes, and county roads in Hampton Roads; municipalities are responsible for their own primary and secondary roadways.
Motorists can check current road conditions using VDOT’s free 511 mobile app or visit https://511.vdot.virginia.gov/ before traveling. For questions or reports of hazardous conditions on state-maintained roads, the VDOT Customer Service Center is available online at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov/ or by calling 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623).
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