SALEM – Low temperatures overnight caused some icing across the Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT) Salem District. Operators made good progress overnight plowing primary routes and will move on to secondary routes today.
Interstate 81 throughout the Salem District continues to be in moderate condition meaning there is ice or snow on major portions of the roadway. A backup caused by an accident Thursday evening required a portion of northbound I-81 near mile marker 103 to be closed overnight as plow drivers and State Police worked to treat the ice that accumulated due to the stopped traffic and to restore traffic flow. Traffic is moving very slowly in this area.
I-77 in Carroll County and I-581 in Roanoke County are in minor condition.
Primary routes (those numbered 1-599) in Botetourt, Giles, Craig, Pulaski and Roanoke counties are in minor condition. All other counties are listed in moderate condition.
Secondary routes (those numbered 600 and above), ramps and bridges remain in severe condition with the exception of Pulaski County which is listed as moderate.
Operators will continue to plow and treat Interstate and primary roads until they are clear and will then move to secondary and neighborhood roads. It is VDOT’s goal to reach all roads within 48 hours after a storm ends.
Drivers are encouraged to avoid travel on secondary roads. If driving is necessary call 511 or visit 511Virginia.org to check road conditions.
If drivers must go out they are advised to do the following:
- Slow down and allow for extra time to reach your destination
- Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges
- Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road
- Do not pass snow removal equipment
The Salem District includes the counties of Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Henry, Montgomery, Patrick, Pulaski and Roanoke.
Road condition definitions:
Severe – drifting or partially blocked road. Snow tires or chains are necessary.
Moderate – snow or ice on major portions of the roadway. Snow tires or chains are advisable.
Minor – bare pavement except for isolated spots of snow, ice or slush. Driving with caution is recommended.