VDOT News - Statewide

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) continues preparation for forecasted heavy rain, winds and flooding in southeastern and coastal Virginia that may occur when the regions begin seeing impacts from Hurricane Dorian as early as Thursday night. VDOT continues to closely monitor the forecast and conditions, and crews are prepared to respond to any unsafe traveling conditions and damage resulting from the storm.

Hurricane Dorian could potentially bring coastal and inland flooding, storm surge, damaging winds and prolonged power outages. The storm is expected to impact the southeastern and coastal Virginia areas through Friday, and travel may be difficult in affected areas during that time. It is important for residents and motorists in the storm’s path to be weather aware, and regularly seek official updates on conditions.

VDOT staff and crews have made preparations, including:

• readying trucks and equipment
• inspecting drainage facilities and clearing them, where necessary
• planning for staff augmentation of Safety Service Patrols and Traffic Operations Centers for additional traffic monitoring, emergency response capabilities and assisting motorists in distress along major routes
• lifting lane closures, where possible, on major routes in affected areas to keep roads clear for emergency responders and evacuees
• notifying additional debris/tree removal crews to be on standby once the storm arrives

VDOT, along with local partners, will be closely monitoring conditions that may require the suspension or closure of storm-impacted tunnels, bridges and ferryboat services. The agency continues to work closely with local and state partners at the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Virginia State Police as the storm approaches to plan and coordinate emergency response. VDOT is also coordinating with utility companies statewide in advance of potential downed power lines.

Preparation tips

• Gather needed items for emergency kits for your home and vehicle. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has tips for what to include: https://www.vaemergency.gov/.
• Clear any debris from drainage facilities on your property to prepare for heavy rains.

 Information resources

• To reach local authorities in a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
• Get the latest road conditions - call 511, go to 511virginia.org or download the mobile app at the 511 web site.
• Report downed trees, hazardous road conditions or talk to a customer service representative – call VDOT’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623).
• Statewide traffic information is also available on Twitter @511statewideVA.
• For general VDOT information, follow @VaDOT on Twitter or VirginiaDOT on Facebook.

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