Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - As a winter weather system moves into Virginia, Governor Youngkin has declared a state of emergency.
A winter storm is expected to move into Central Virginia Tuesday morning and exit early Wednesday. This system will bring a variety of weather conditions, from snow and sleet to rain.
In an announcement in the morning on Monday, Feb. 10, the Office of the Governor reminded Virginians to stay off the roads as much as possible during a winter storm and monitor forecasts.
“With another round of winter weather across the state this week forecasted to bring heavy snow and ice, I am declaring a state of emergency so we can move resources around the state,” said Youngkin. “I urge all Virginians to monitor your local forecast and to prepare for possible impacts to roadways and infrastructure beginning overnight Monday throughout Tuesday.”
Anyone who must travel during the winter storm is reminded to keep the following safety measures in mind:
• Use headlights: Increasing your visibility helps you to avoid slick and dangerous spots on the road, as well as helps other drivers see you better.
• Slow your speed: Slowing your speed gives you more time to safely react and avoid a crash. Drive your vehicle based on your ability to properly maintain control of your vehicle.
• Don’t tailgate: Increase stopping distance on slick road surfaces. Give yourself more space between vehicles traveling ahead of you to avoid rear-end collisions.
• Buckle Up: Most crashes that occur during winter weather are caused by vehicles sliding into guardrails, off the road or other vehicles. Wearing your seat belt protects you from being thrown around the inside of your vehicle and suffering serious injury in a crash.
• Check Your Vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is in good working order for the conditions. Fill up the tank in advance. Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid, tire tread, battery life, etc.
• Be prepared: Don’t leave home without a window scraper, blanket, bottled water, snack, cell phone charger and flashlight.
For real-time traffic conditions anywhere in the state, dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.vdot.virginia.gov.
