ROADS REPORTED SNOW-COVERED ACROSS CENTRAL VA.
Motorists advised to use caution; VDOT crews work to clear high-volume routes

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE Culp. 2008-TA06
CONTACT: Lou Hatter (540) 829-7537 January 17, 2008
cell (540) 717-2890 10 a.m.
Lou.Hatter@VDOT.Virginia.gov

ROADS REPORTED SNOW-COVERED ACROSS CENTRAL VA.
Motorists advised to use caution; VDOT crews work to clear high-volume routes

CULPEPER – Roads across the Culpeper District are reported snow-covered at 10 a.m. Sunday as heavy snow continues to fall and temperatures hover near freezing. The snow, which began about 8 a.m. in the Charlottesville area and spread north through Culpeper to Fauquier County, began sticking almost immediately on cold road surfaces. The district’s western counties, against the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge, are seeing the heaviest accumulations.

VDOT and contract crews have been on duty since early this morning and are treating roads with abrasives and chemicals and plowing the snow as it accumulates. The crews will continue working through the afternoon and overnight Thursday until roads are clear.

Interstate 64 in Albemarle is reported in minor to moderate condition, with wet pavement and patches of snow and slush. Several crashes have been reported, with lane closures, in Albemarle and Louisa counties. I-64 in Louisa is reported in moderate condition, with much of the road surface snow-covered. I-66 in Fauquier County is reported in moderate condition. The district’s primary roads are reported in moderate condition with most of the surface covered with snow and slush. Most secondary roads have not yet been plowed.

VDOT snowplows are focusing on the high-volume primary roads and the interstate highways, applying a mixture of sand and salt to improve traction and melt the snow. Plows are be used once the snow reaches a depth of between three-quarters and one inch.

The most recent weather forecasts call for a winter storm warning until midnight Thursday, with continuing snow possibly changing to sleet or freezing rain Thursday evening before ending around midnight. The National Weather Service is warning that temperatures will remain at or below freezing overnight so hazardous driving conditions are likely Thursday night and Friday morning.

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 temperature falls after dark. If you must be on the roads during the storm, 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.
· Don’t park along the street. Snow plow drivers can’t fully clear a road if cars are in their way.
· Know the conditions! Before heading out, call 511 for the latest weather and road condition information or visit www.VirginiaDOT.org.

(END)