ROANOKE, Va. — With a winter storm expected to hit southwest Virginia over the next several days, officials are urging everyone to stay ready for anything.
“We really need folks to take this seriously,” said VDOT spokesperson Jason Bond. “Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.”
If possible, stay off the roads completely while the storm is going on to allow work trucks, snowplows, and emergency personnel to do their jobs.
For those that have to drive, these tips are advised.
- Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Watch out for obstacles like black ice, downed power lines, and fallen trees, especially on back roads.
- Don’t pass emergency or work vehicles.
- Plan ahead with proper fuel and emergency items.
“If there’s an incident and you get stuck out on the roadways in the extreme cold, make sure your vehicles are fueled and ready to go so you’re not at risk of running out of fuel on the interstates or main roads,” said Roanoke Emergency Management Battalion Chief Trevor Shannon.
Primary roads take precedence when it comes to preparation and plowing, so be extra careful on back roads that could stay risky for longer.
Primary roads could still pose problems though, especially while the storm is going on.
“We expect it to be a fairly heavily traveled weekend because of the end of the holiday season and there’s some concern with that,” said Shannon.
Once the storm passes through, its remnants could be felt on the roadways for days to follow.
“I think one of the things that makes this particular storm a concern are the super cold temperatures that we’re going to see both before and after the storm,” said Bond.
When planning to take a trip, keep in mind that emergency crews only have so many resources and personnel.
If the trip is not necessary, consider staying home.
“It may take us some extended time to get to you if you do need help so there’s concern there as well,” said Shannon.
The 511 website and the VDOT 511 app will provide updates on road conditions throughout the state.