VDOT News - Northern Virginia

RELEASE:

CONTACT:
IMMEDIATE - 4 p.m.

Kathleen Leonard 703-638-9115

NOVA-190145

Jan. 16, 2022



Northern Virginia: Delay Travel and Be Alert to Ice and Refreeze
Residents asked to avoid nonessential travel Sunday through Monday; Ice is a major concern

FAIRFAX - VDOT Northern Virginia crews are mobilizing for snow, freezing rain, and rain that is forecasted to significantly impact the region Sunday and Monday.

As always, residents are asked to monitor forecasts, plan ahead to avoid nonessential travel during winter weather, and to be aware of the potential for black ice and nightly refreeze as temperatures remain low.

What's Happening Now

  • See the Winter Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory from the National Weather Service for precipitation from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning. The forecast includes a range of snow and ice accumulations across VDOT's Northern Virginia District, as well as wind gusts as high as 40 mph and below freezing temperatures. Please continue to monitor forecasts closely as forecasts can improve or worsen quickly.
  • Crews will work around the clock on state-maintained roads, focusing on clearing roads that carry the most traffic first. These include interstates, primary roads, and routes connecting public safety and emergency services. Crews can then focus on neighborhoods and lower-volume roads.
  • Stay alert to messy road conditions throughout the region with the potential for a quick refreeze. Avoid overnight and early morning travel until after sunrise and temperatures improve to give trucks room to work.
  • Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing, causing potential icy conditions and black ice. Treat anything that looks wet as if it could be ice, especially bridges and overpasses. If there is snow or ice on roadways, travel is hazardous.

Reminders for Residents and Drivers:

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