Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Ahead of potentially severe winter weather expected over the weekend, crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) have begun pre-treating area roads.
Meteorologists have forecast a “wintry mix” with heavy rain across the Central Virginia region this weekend.
On Thursday, Jan. 5, VDOT treated roads in Henrico, Goochland, and Hanover counties, as well as the northern and western areas of I-95, I-64, I-295 and Route 288. Roadways were treated with saltwater brine to reduce the chance of ice sticking to the roads.
“Motorists may encounter slow-moving crews and should treat them as emergency response vehicles,” VDOT said in a statement.
VDOT is asking motorists to avoid travel on Saturday. If travel is necessary, VDOT recommends looking at the weather forecast – for where they are, as well as where they’re going. Drivers should allow more time to reach their destinations. They should also keep a safe distance from other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road.
For real-time information on road and traffic conditions, drivers can visit 511virginia.org, check the 511 Virginia mobile app, or call 511.
VDOT says it’s “closely monitoring weather forecasts, especially in areas north and west of Metro Richmond.” The Richmond District has roughly 1,400 pieces of VDOT-owned snow-fighting equipment – including trucks, plows, tractors and motor graders – to address the impact of winter weather events.
“Any wet pavement from rainfall has the potential to turn into slick spots as temperatures drop,” VDOT said. “As forecasts and conditions could change, motorists should pay close attention to local weather reports and announcements from officials and limit their travels based on conditions.”
