VDOT: 'Ready for Snow in Fredericksburg District'

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has positioned staff, materials and equipment for a rapid response to the winter storm predicted for the Fredericksburg area.

"Crews will begin 24-hour emergency operations at 8 p.m. Tuesday in the Fredericksburg area," VDOT said.  "We have 462 pieces of state and hired equipment ready to deploy in the region, including 50 trucks dedicated to clearing and treating Interstate 95 and the interstate ramps, bridges and overpasses. Salt, sand and chemical supplies are fully stocked." 

Motorists are encouraged to limit travel Wednesday, to allow VDOT crews to clear the roads.  

High winds and heavy, wet snow may cause downed trees and power lines. VDOT has tree removal contractors on emergency standby to help re-open any blocked roads.   

Snow is expected in the Fredericksburg area between midnight and 4 a.m. on Wednesday, starting with Stafford and Spotsylvania counties. As the storm moves east of I-95, localities along the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula will start to receive snow throughout the day.   In the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula, VDOT will monitor the weather, and will deploy staff and equipment in response to road and weather conditions.  

Motorist Resources  

Motorists can call 511, visit www.511Virginia.org, or use VDOT’s 511Virginia free mobile app to find real-time road conditions in any area of the state.   Road conditions may be rated as clear, minor, moderate or severe.  

• Clear: No conditions.
• Minor:  Bare pavement, except for isolated spots of snow, ice or slush.
• Moderate: Snow or ice is covering major portions of the roadway.
• Severe: Significant amount of snow or ice is covering the roadway, and roadway may be partially blocked or affected by drifting snow.

VDOT’s Customer Service Center is open 24 hours a day to answer questions and take reports of roadway hazards at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623).

Driving Tips

Motorists are strongly encouraged to avoid travel during inclement weather. If travel is absolutely necessary, the following driving tips are advised:

• Keep your car’s windows, mirrors and lights clear of snow and ice.

• Always wear your seat belt.

• Leave a few minutes early.

• Start out slowly in the lowest gear recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

• Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges.

• Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road.

• Don’t pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary. Treat these as you would emergency response vehicles.

• Keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car.

• Drive smart and pay close attention.  

VDOT’s 14-county Fredericksburg District includes the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania and Stafford in the Fredericksburg area; Northumberland, Richmond, Lancaster and Westmoreland counties in the Northern Neck; Essex, Gloucester, King & Queen, King William, Mathews and Middlesex counties in the Middle Peninsula.   

For all the information you need for this week's storm, see the topic page on Fredericksburg Patch: