Winter Weather Alert: Snow and Extreme Cold to Impact Shenandoah Valley

Winter weather is set to make travel treacherous in the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands on Sunday, January 19, as snow will be followed by several days of extreme cold. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Staunton District urges travelers to exercise caution and plan ahead, as icy roads and hazardous conditions are expected.

VDOT crews will work around the clock to monitor, plow, and treat roadways. However, drivers should be aware that salt becomes less effective when temperatures drop below 20 degrees, and roads that have been treated may remain icy. Unpaved roads will be treated with sand and gravel for traction, but packed snow and ice may persist in frigid temperatures.

Bridges and overpasses are especially dangerous as they freeze more quickly than road surfaces. Heavy, wet snow or ice could also lead to falling tree limbs and debris, adding to travel hazards.

Tips for Travelers:

• Plan trips before or after hazardous conditions.
• Stay updated on weather forecasts and check for changing conditions along your travel route.
• Monitor road conditions through VDOT’s resources, including the 511 Virginia website and mobile apps.

Road-Clearing Priorities:
VDOT will prioritize clearing the interstate highway system and limited-access roadways first. Primary roads, major secondary roads, and routes serving emergency or high-traffic areas will be addressed next. Low-volume secondary roads and subdivision streets will only be treated once higher-priority routes are cleared.

Stay Informed:

• Visit the 511 Virginia website at https://511.vdot.virginia.gov/ for road conditions, traffic cameras, and updates.
• Follow VDOT Staunton District on social media: Twitter (@VaDOTStaunton) and Facebook.
• For statewide updates, follow @VaDOT and other district-specific Twitter accounts.

For detailed winter driving tips, snow-removal procedures, and travel kit suggestions, visit https://www.vdot.virginia.gov and search “winter weather.”

Emergency Assistance:
The VDOT Customer Service Center is available 24/7 at 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) or through their mobile-friendly website at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov.

Stay safe, drive cautiously, and plan ahead as the Shenandoah Valley braces for winter’s icy grip.