Freezing Rain Falling Across Central Va.
Motorists Urged to Avoid Travel; VDOT Sanding Highways

CULPEPER – Freezing rain is falling across much of Central Virginia at this hour but so far the precipitation is not creating any widespread problems on the roads.

The Virginia Department of Transportation has crews out across the region overnight treating roads with sand and salt, particularly bridges, overpasses and other areas where ice has been a problem in the past. Temperatures are reported at or just below freezing.

VDOT has prepared for this winter storm since Thursday, fitting its trucks with chains, loading sand and salt and assigning crews for tree removal in anticipation of the predicted ice storm and possible high winds later in the day Friday.

Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm on Friday mornin, and expect to encounter icy patches on the roads, particularly on bridges, overpasses, ramps and roads in the higher elevations where temperatures are colder. Hazardous driving conditions are likely to continue through Friday morning until temperatures warm above freezing. The storm is predicted to change to rain late Friday morning before ending. If you must drive Friday morning, observe the following winter driving tips:

·         Make sure your vehicle is winter ready and keep an emergency kit in your car.

·         Allow plenty of time to reach your destination. Wear your seatbelt.

·         Slow down. 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 low areas near water, bridges and overpasses.

·         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.

·         Know the conditions! Before heading out, call 511 for the latest weather and road condition information or visit www.VirginiaDOT.org.