RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Lou Hatter 540-829-7537 Louis.Hatter@VDOT.Virginia.gov Odile Brookings 540-829-7394

CULP-2006-05 Feb. 11, 2006

Crews work ahead of expected snow, overnight freezing

CULPEPER – Secondary roads across the Culpeper District are reported snow-covered as night falls and temperatures drop below freezing. After a day-long snow that accumulated mostly on grassy areas VDOT crews are reporting that it has begun to stick on road surfaces. The district’s western counties, against the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge, are seeing the heaviest accumulations.

Fog is reported on Interstate 64 on Afton Mountain with visibility estimated at 300 feet at milepost 99 (top of the mountain). The highway’s fog lights and warning signs have been activated and the Smart Traffic Center in Staunton is monitoring the roadway.

Interstate 64 in Albemarle is reported in minor condition, with mainly wet pavement and isolated patches of snow and slush. I-64 in Louisa is reported clear, with wet pavement. I-66 in Fauquier County is reported clear. The district’s primary roads are reported mostly wet with patches of snow and slush at this hour.

VDOT snowplows are on the roads, monitoring conditions and applying a mixture of sand and salt as needed to improve traction and melt the snow. Plows will be used once the snow reaches a depth of between three-quarters and one inch.

The most recent weather forecasts call for 6 to 12 inches of snow accumulating across the district, with the snow increasing in intensity through the night before ending Sunday morning. Visibility is expected to be poor during periods of heavy snow and wind. Once the temperature falls below freezing water and slush may freeze on the road surfaces, making driving hazardous.

VDOT crews will continue snow operations around the clock until the roads are cleared. Their first priority is clearing interstate and primary highways, and resources will be shifted to secondary roads as conditions permit.

Motorists should avoid unnecessary travel, especially overnight, as road conditions will likely deteriorate as the storm intensifies. If you must be on the roads during the storm, observe the following winter driving tips:

• Make sure your vehicle is winter ready.
• Keep an emergency driving kit in your car and wear your seatbelt.
• Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles.
• Do not attempt to pass snowplows and stay at least 100 feet behind them.
• Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges.
• When driving on ice, don’t slam on your brakes. Travel gently. Turn slowly. Sudden changes can cause your car to spin out of control.
• Don’t park along the street. Snow plow drivers can’t fully clear a road if cars are in their way.
• If possible, avoid unnecessary travel when crews are clearing snow and ice from the roadways.
• Know the conditions! Before heading out, call 511 for the latest road condition information or visit www.VirginiaDOT.org.