SALEM - Crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation have been working throughout this winter weather event to plow and treat roads in the 12-county Salem District. In addition, debris removal crews have been dispatched to remove the numerous trees that have fallen into roadways due to the weight of heavy, wet snow in their branches.
If driving is necessary tonight and into the early morning hours on Saturday, motorists should be extremely cautious as falling overnight temperatures are expected to refreeze moisture and create slick road conditions. Roads that appear wet may actually be icy and slippery. Drivers should pay particular attention to ramps, bridges, overpasses and other cooler spots where slick spots may form.
Crews with VDOT and its contractors will continue to monitor conditions overnight, to plow and treat roads as needed and to respond to downed trees. Interstate contractor crews will be monitoring bridges, ramps and overpasses tonight.
As of 4 p.m., Interstate 81 in the Roanoke and New River valleys and I-581 are clear and I-77 in the Hillsville area is mostly clear, but drivers should be aware of isolated slick spots of slush or ice. All primary roads (those numbered 1-599) 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.
Downed trees and fallen utility lines in some areas have slowed progress on plowing secondary roads and neighborhood streets (those numbered 600 and above) in some areas, but most of these routes have been plowed today. Drivers should use caution as slick spots and icy patches will be present.
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.
Note: This will be the final road conditions traffic alert associated with this event.