RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Paula K Jones . 434-856-8176 lynchburginfo@VirginiaDOT.org

LYN-04-011 Jan. 26, 2004

ROADS SNOW COVERED, MORE SLEET/FREEZING RAIN PREDICTED

Snow fell across the Commonwealth during most of the day Sunday mixing with sleet/freezing rain in the overnight hours and early hours of Monday. Forecasters indicate that additional mixed precipitation may fall throughout the day Monday in the Lynchburg District of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). The Lynchburg District covers the counties of Amherst, Appomattox, Buckingham, Campbell, Charlotte, Cumberland, Halifax, Nelson, Pittsylvania and Prince Edward.

Snow totals of up to five inches have been reported in some areas. Moderate road conditions are reported in most areas; moderate indicates that snow or ice is on pavement and that chains or snow tires are advised. Severe conditions are reported in Buckingham, Cumberland and Prince Edward Counties. Several conditions indicate that there is an accumulation of snow or ice on the roadways and that chains or snow tires are necessary. VDOT crews are continuing to work primary and major secondary roads throughout the region and will do so until after the storm ends and the roadways are passable. Once this is accomplished, they will move to secondary routes.

Motorists should be alert to icy conditions for roadways. Bridges, overpasses and shaded areas will freeze before roadways and special attention should be given these areas.

Motorists can help VDOT by knowing the conditions before venturing out, allowing extra time for travel, driving slowly and being alert at all times. Additional winter weather driving tips, as well as current road condition information, are available on VDOT’s Internet site at www.VirginiaDOT.org. Road conditions may also be obtained by calling the Department’s Highway Helpline at 1-800-367-ROAD.