The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has issued a warning about potentially slippery driving conditions expected on Tuesday morning, as the first widespread winter storm of the season approaches the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands. The forecast calls for a mix of snow and freezing rain early in the day, with slick spots likely during the morning commute, particularly in higher elevations and on elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses.
According to VDOT, ice accumulation is expected in central and southern parts of the region, including Alleghany, Rockbridge, Bath, Highland, and Augusta counties. Snowfall is anticipated in the northern Shenandoah Valley. “The Virginia Department of Transportation advises motorists to postpone travel if possible until temperatures rise and conditions improve Tuesday afternoon,” stated VDOT.
VDOT’s Staunton District will be responsible for plowing and treating roadways throughout the area. The agency prioritizes interstate highways first, followed by primary roads (routes numbered 1 to 599), then major secondary roads (numbered 600 and up) that serve key infrastructure or have high traffic volumes. Other secondary roads and subdivision streets will be addressed after higher-priority routes are completed as resources allow.
For real-time traffic alerts and updated travel information, drivers can dial 511 or visit the 511 Virginia website. The platform provides road condition updates via a color-coded map as well as county-by-county text listings. Road conditions are categorized as minor (bare pavement except for isolated spots), moderate (snow or ice on major portions), severe (drifting or partially blocked roads), or closed (road closed to all traffic).
VDOT’s Customer Service Center operates around-the-clock to assist roadway users with reporting hazards, making service requests, or obtaining transportation-related information. Assistance is available by calling 800-367-7623 or through their mobile-friendly website.
The Staunton District covers Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany and Bath counties. Updates from VDOT Staunton District can also be found on Facebook and X.
