RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Paula K. Jones (434) 856-8176 Paula.Jones@vdot.virginia.gov

LYN-08-019 Jan. 31, 2008

More icy weather in forecast - motorists be alert

LYNCHBURG - Motorists may find travel difficult during overnight and early morning hours as roads across the Lynchburg District of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) may be icy once again. Weather forecasts are predicting some precipitation across much of the commonwealth late tonight and tomorrow. What form the precipitation takes depends upon timing, temperature and location.

A portion of the ten-county district in south-central Virginia is currently under a winter storm watch until Friday afternoon. A winter storm watch means there is a potential for significant ice and sleet accumulations that may impact travel. In addition, some forecast models indicate that strong winds late Friday in these areas may contribute to the downing of trees and power lines in some locations. Other areas of the district are under a ice storm warning until 12:00 p.m. on Friday. An ice storm warning means severe weather conditions are occurring or expected and significant ice accumulation will likely impact travel.

The danger of icy road and bridge surfaces is present over night with temperatures hovering near freezing and may remain likely throughout Friday morning.

Motorists can do a great deal to help themselves remain safe should travel become necessary during inclement weather. Follow these simple steps:

* Know the weather conditions before heading out. Dial 511 or go to www.511Virginia.org or www.VDOT.Virginia.gov for additional information.
* Be familiar with the operations of personal vehicles. Do you have anti-lock brakes? If so, brake and hold them when stopping; if not, pump them.
* Slow down.
* Increase distance between vehicles.
* Make smooth, precise movements with the steering wheel.
* Anticipate lane changes, curves, and turns well in advance.

For more information about Virginia’s efforts to prepare for winter weather and other emergencies, visit www.ReadyVirginia.gov. Ready Virginia was created by state agencies to serve as a one-stop resource of emergency preparedness tips and information for Virginia citizens.