Don’t underestimate Saturday’s Winter wallop on Shenandoah Valley roads

Spring-like conditions will step aside for a reappearance of winter weather on Saturday, March 11. During the morning heavy rain turning to heavy snow is expected, followed by high winds with bitter temperatures. People should avoid traveling in the Shenandoah Valley area during the storm. Heavy slush and snow on roads are expected throughout the region, with more snow accumulating on ridge-tops.

High winds could cause branches and trees to fall on some roads. Drivers should be alert for changing road conditions and areas of debris. Sub-freezing temperatures are forecasted for Saturday night into Sunday. Any water on road surfaces will freeze creating slick driving conditions.

Virginia Department of Transportation Staunton District crews will be deployed on Friday night into Saturday to monitor and clear roads as conditions warrant. Tree crews are on standby and wreckers will be pre-staged in several areas. VDOT crews will remain on duty until the storm and any resulting road conditions are concluded.

VDOT advises checking the Virginia 511 system at www.511Virginia.org prior to travel. Downed power lines and downed trees may have closed some roadways or caused delays across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Always drive defensively and use a seatbelt. Daylight savings time begins on Sunday, March 12, and will appear in 511 time-stamps on traffic alerts.

Road conditions and traffic cameras can be found on the VDOT 511 website at www.511Virginia.org, Roads with snow conditions will be marked minor, moderate, severe or closed.

Road condition definitions:
Closed – Road is closed to all traffic.
Severe – drifting or partially blocked road.
Moderate – snow or ice on major portions of the roadway.
Minor – bare pavement except for isolated spots of snow, ice or slush. Driving with caution is recommended.