VDOT to continue plowing roads into the evening and overnight

Cold overnight temperatures may cause refreezing tonight and tomorrow morning

SALEM – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has been plowing and treating roads through the day in response to the winter storm that covered roads with snow throughout Virginia.

This afternoon and tonight, drivers can expect interstates and primary roads (those numbered 1-599) to be mostly clear with isolated slick spots. Motorists on these main routes should still watch out for icy spots caused by refreeze overnight and tomorrow morning.

Today, equipment operators have been focusing on secondary roads and neighborhood streets (those numbered 600 and above) and have made progress. They will continue plowing and treating secondary roads into the evening and overnight hours, but low temperatures may pose challenges.  Unplowed snow on these routes will freeze, and plowed roads may become icy.

For tonight and into overnight hours, VDOT crews and contractors will be

• Continuing to plow secondary roads and neighborhood streets
• Treating refreezing and icy patches on primary roads
• Monitoring conditions on the primary roads additional snow or ice may impact these routes

For those who must drive tonight, keep in mind the following:

• Clear the snow and ice from your vehicle’s roof, hood and trunk and especially from the windows, mirrors and lights.
• Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
• Drive carefully and use caution.
• Keep a safe distance 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.

Road condition information is available by visiting www.511Virginia.org.

The Salem District includes the counties of Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Henry, Montgomery, Patrick, Pulaski, and Roanoke.