SALEM – Snow plow drivers with the Virginia Department of Transportation and its contractors have been working since yesterday to plow and treat roads throughout southwestern Virginia. Road conditions are improving with warmer temperatures and as crews are making progress on plowing.
Heavy snow on tree branches continues to down trees throughout the region. Debris removal crews have been dispatched to remove trees from roadways.
As of 11:30 a.m., motorists can expect the following road conditions for the 12-county Salem District:
Interstate 81 and Interstate 581 in the Roanoke area are clear of snow. In the New River Valley, I-81 in Montgomery and Pulaski counties is in minor condition. Interstate 77 is Carroll County is in moderate condition.
All primary (those numbered 1-599) roads in the 12-county district are clear or minor at this time. The Salem District includes the counties of Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Henry, Montgomery, Patrick, Pulaski, and Roanoke.
Snow plow drivers are concentrating their efforts today on secondary roads and neighborhood streets (those numbered 600 and above) and trouble spots.
Road condition definitions:
Severe – Significant accumulations of snow; partially blocking the road; conditions are hazardous
Moderate – snow or ice on major portions of the roadway.
Minor – wet pavement except for isolated spots of snow, ice or slush
Motorists can find the latest road conditions before travelling on 511 Virginia at www.511Virginia.org.
To report downed trees or other maintenance issues, contact VDOT Customer Service Center at 1-800-367-ROAD.