SALEM – With winter weather anticipated to impact portions of southwestern Virginia beginning this evening, Tuesday, January 13, through the morning of Wednesday, January 14, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is urging motorists to monitor weather reports and expect potentially slick and icy road conditions.
VDOT snow plow operators and contractors are monitoring road conditions in many areas to treat or plow roads as necessary. If temperatures drop below freezing, wintry participation could create slick roads and conditions could change rapidly. Motorists should pay particular attention to bridges, overpasses, curves, shaded areas, cooler spots and elevated surfaces that may become slick or snow-covered before other areas.
VDOT crews in the Salem District will not be pre-treating roads with brine ahead of this storm because the weather event is expected to start out as rain before transitioning to freezing rain or snow. With rain forecasted ahead of frozen precipitation, the brine would wash off roads and not be effective.
If travel is necessary, drivers should use extreme caution and follow these winter driving tips:
• When driving on ice, don’t slam on your brakes. Travel gently. Turn slowly. Sudden changes can cause your car to spin out of control.
• Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles.
• Allow extra time for travel.
• Make sure your vehicle is winter ready – be sure to completely clear all windows, lights, and side mirrors before driving.
• Wear your seatbelt and don’t drive distracted.
For the latest information on this traffic alert, visit www.511Virginia.org or follow us on twitter at @511southwestva or @VaDOTSalem. Travelers are reminded that they can get real-time information on road conditions and traffic incidents on Virginia roads by using VDOT’s 511 free mobile app and the 511 website.
The Salem District includes the counties of Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Henry, Montgomery, Patrick, Pulaski, and Roanoke.
(END)