Winter Storm to Impact expected 24-26 Jan 2026

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A Message from Village Green

We’re expecting significant bad weather this weekend. Hopefully how much snow/ice we get and how bad the roads, etc are is minimized, however, if that is not the case, please take care and review the following below. Also, a reminder we have folks in the neighborhood who can help those who need services such as driveways and sidewalks shoveled.

As always, please be safe this weekend and look out for your neighbors!

A Message from Virginia

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A significant winter storm is expected to impact the entire Commonwealth of Virginia this weekend. According to the National Weather Service and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the storm will start as snow across the state, arriving in the western part of Virginia Saturday afternoon, progressing eastward into late Saturday evening. Snow rates pick up overnight Saturday into Sunday, with sleet and freezing rain pushing in from the south after midnight. The storm will continue through the day on Sunday, even lingering into Monday morning for areas east of I-95. An increase in sleet/freezing rain protentional, especially for areas south of I-64, and below freezing temperatures in the days following the storm, will further complicate the impact on Virginia.

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Governor Spanberger has declared a state of emergency in advance of this winter storm. My office has also been in contact with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM). VDEM strongly encourages Virginians to avoid travel this weekend and to stay off the roads.

For tips on how best to prepare for this storm and others, please visit Ready.gov. I also encourage you to track the storm by visiting the National Weather Service (NWS) at www.weather.gov. You can also follow updates on the storm on X (formerly known as “Twitter”) by following @NOAA and @NWS. Also, be sure to check local weather statements via NWS for specific details for your County Warning Area (CWA) on weather conditions, evacuation decisions made by local officials, and other precautions necessary to protect life and property.

For the Richmond and Hampton Roads regions, please use the statements from the National Weather Service field office in Wakefield, Virginia (click on current hazards). You can also follow the NWS’ Wakefield Field Office on X at @NWSWakefieldVA. For those that don’t use X, there is also the FEMA mobile app that you can download as well.

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Below is the emergency contact information for localities in the 3rd Congressional District of Virginia, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and Dominion Power. In the event of an emergency, always dial 911 first.

Virginia Department of Emergency Management
Website: https://www.vaemergency.gov/

City of Newport News
Website: https://www.nnva.gov/414/Emergency-Management

Dominion (Power)
If you need to report a power outage or downed power lines, please call Dominion at 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357). Dominion has additional information on how to report and prepare for an outage on their website at: https://www.dominionenergy.com/virginia/report-outage-or-emergency

A Message from VDOT

A long-duration winter storm is forecast to impact Hampton Roads beginning Saturday evening and continuing into early next week, creating hazardous travel conditions across the region and throughout the rest of the state. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Hampton Roads District continues to actively prepare for the storm, with crews, equipment and materials at the ready to respond as conditions warrant. Motorists should avoid all nonessential travel during and after the storm until conditions improve.

Current forecasts indicate snow is expected to begin Saturday evening, with temperatures remaining below freezing. Travel conditions are expected to worsen Sunday morning as snow transitions to sleet and freezing rain across the region, with the most significant icing impacts forecast for the western and northern portions of Hampton Roads. This combination of winter precipitation and significant icing is expected to create hazardous driving conditions and make travel unsafe during and for a period following the storm. Ice accumulation combined with gusty winds Sunday and into early next week may result in downed trees and debris.

VDOT’s crews are continuing pretreatment operations today on state-maintained roadways ahead of the storm. Once snowfall accumulation begins Saturday evening, crews will begin plowing operations, prioritizing the highest-volume routes first, including interstates, county primary roads and some major secondary routes. As the storm transitions to sleet and freezing rain on Sunday, crews will continue treating roadways, including spreading salt and abrasives to assist with melting and improve traction.

Hazardous travel conditions may continue after precipitation ends as temperatures drop and wet roadways refreeze, extending impacts into early next week. While crews will be working around the clock to address roadway conditions, significant icing is forecast and can result in extremely hazardous travel conditions. The safest place to be during this winter storm is inside and off the roadways.

Due to forecasted high winds, snow and significant icing, the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry service may experience service suspensions during the storm.

This winter storm is expected to impact much of Virginia, and motorists should check road conditions along their entire route before traveling, including areas outside Hampton Roads.

VDOT maintains all interstates, major state-maintained primary routes, and county roads within Hampton Roads. Individual municipalities maintain their own roadways, including their own primary and secondary roads.

Additional Resources:

• 511 Virginia Traffic Tools: Before traveling, check roadway conditions by using VDOT’s free 511 mobile app, which offers information about road conditions, traffic, incidents, construction and congestion as well as access to traffic cameras, weather and more. Information is also available at 511.vdot.virginia.gov or by calling 511 while in Virginia.

• VDOT Customer Service Center: For questions or to report hazardous road conditions on state-maintained roadways, motorists can contact VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or calling 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623).

A Message from Newport News

Newport News Prepares For Winter Storm Fern

Newport News, VA — Newport News City Manager Alan K. Archer has declared a state of emergency for the City of Newport News.

Storm preparations are underway throughout the city. Public Works crews have been treating roads with salt and de-icing materials. The Emergency Operations Team is monitoring the weather closely and will continue to provide updates as the storm front moves through the area.

Shelter and Resources for Those in Need

Winter Weather Safety Tips

As the storm approaches, residents are reminded of the following safety precautions:

  1. Stay Informed: Stay connected through local news, the city’s website, or social media for real-time weather updates and important alerts.
  2. Travel Cautiously: If travel is necessary, be sure your vehicle is equipped with winter essentials such as snow tires, blankets, food, and a flashlight. Avoid non-essential travel whenever possible.
  3. Prepare Your Home: Keep emergency supplies like extra blankets, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and non-perishable food on hand in case of power outages.
  4. Check on Neighbors: Help elderly or disabled neighbors who may need assistance with snow removal or preparing for the cold.
  5. Stay Away from Downed Power Lines: If you encounter downed power lines, stay at least 30 feet away and report them to authorities immediately.

City Encourages Safety and Preparedness

“City officials are urging residents to prioritize safety as unpredictable conditions persist throughout the storm. ‘We encourage everyone to stay off the roads when possible and take extra precautions to ensure safety during this winter weather event,’ said City Manager Archer.”

Residents can stay informed and reach out to the city for updates through various channels:

  • Local news and weather updates
  • The city’s website: www.nnva.gov
  • 311 Customer Contact Center: 757-933-2311
  • Newport News Police Department Non-Emergency Number: 757-247-2500
  • Animal Control: 757-595-PETS (7387)
  • Facebook: www.facebook.com/CityofNewportNews
  • Nextdoor: City of Newport News on Nextdoor
  • Instagram: @CityofNN
  • (X) Twitter: www.x.com/CityofNN

There are three easy ways to report outages and track restoration times:

Please remember: Do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

A Message from the Newport News Fire Department

A Message from Dominion Energy

Prepare for winter weather

A mixture of freezing rain, sleet and snow are expected this weekend and could linger for several days which may result in hazardous conditions and power outages in your community.

In addition to road hazards and possible black ice, the combination of snow, sleet and freezing rain could result in falling limbs and trees and possible damage to power lines.

If your power goes out, report it using the Dominion Energy app or online at DominionEnergy.com. You can also check for updates and view the outage map.

How to prepare: 

  • Keep your mobile phone and other devices fully charged.
  • Download the Dominion Energy app for the easiest, most secure way to report and monitor the status of your outage or outages in your area.
  • Create or restock emergency kits. The National Weather Service recommends creating a basic emergency kit before a storm hits, including water, flashlights, batteries, medicine and non-perishable foods to last several days. Learn more about what to include in your kit.

Safety reminders: 

  • Stay away from downed power lines. Always assume they are energized and dangerous. Report them immediately by calling 1-866-366-4357.
  • If your power goes out, keep freezers and refrigerators closed as long as possible to preserve the food inside.
  • Avoid black ice on roads, driveways and walkways if possible.

A Message from Virginia Natural Gas

The first major winter storm of 2026 is expected to hit  the Eastern United States – from the Midwest to the Southeast – with frigid temperatures, snow and ice. We’ll be onsite and in the field responding to potential disruptions and keeping our neighborhoods safe.

While you can rest easy knowing we’ve got an eye on your natural gas service, there’s plenty you can do at home to ensure your personal safety. Here are a few tips:

  1. First and foremost – do you know where your natural gas meter is located? Check now and ensure it’s easily accessible and clear of any trash or debris that might slow down an emergency responder.
  2. Likewise, know if any appliances vent outside. Some high-efficiency furnaces and power-vented water heaters do, so you want to be sure those vents are clear and open.
  3. If you need to clear either of the two areas listed above, brush the snow or ice carefully! Never use a shovel – at most, use a hand or broom. Anything stronger could damage your equipment. And never attempt to break off ice using a hammer.
  4. Look up. Remove hanging icicles to prevent dripping water from refreezing on your meter or vent.
  5. Don’t make things worse. In a rush, you might unknowingly push ice or snow against your natural gas equipment. Be mindful where you are shoveling and what you could be covering in the process.

Know that we’re here for during the storm and long after. If at any time you feel unsafe or suspect storm damage to your natural gas equipment, don’t hesitate to call 911 or 1.877.572.3342, our 24-hour emergency response line. Your safety is always our top priority.

Learn what to do before, during and after severe winter weather >>

2025 Hurricane Season Preparation

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As hurricane season approaches, from June 1 to November 30, preparedness is more important than ever. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting a 60 percent chance of an above-normal hurricane season in 2025, with the potential for 6 to 10 hurricanes producing winds of 74 mph or higher. By taking proactive steps now, we can help safeguard Newport News and reduce the potential impact of these powerful storms.

Some Ways to Prepare:

  • Stay Informed: Monitor emergency alerts and local news for updates.
  • Support Your Neighbors: Reach out to neighbors who may require extra help preparing for a storm.
  • Gather Emergency Supplies: Stock up on essentials such as medications, water, nonperishable food, flashlights, disinfectant supplies, and extra batteries. There should be three days worth of food and water per person in your emergency supply kit.
  • Plan for Your Pets: Ensure you have at least a three-day supply of food and water for each pet, along with any necessary medications.
  • Know Your Evacuation Zone: Understand your evacuation routes and decide where you would go in case of an emergency. For detailed information on evacuation zones, click here. First, select the “Find Your Evacuation Zone” button, then go to the “Emergency Management” tab.

Taking a few simple steps now, such as knowing your evacuation zone, gathering essential supplies, and staying informed, can make a big difference during a hurricane. Don’t wait for the storm to start preparing. Stay proactive, stay safe, and be ready.

Are you Stroke Smart?

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Neighborhood vehicle/pedestrian safety awareness

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One of the great aspects of our neighborhood is we look out for each other. There are times, however, where we may sometimes get complacent and forget, while we’re driving through the neighborhood, all the people who walk and bike in the same road we drive. The greatest thing we can do for our fellow neighbors is to keep our vigilance high while we’re driving through the neighborhood. How can we do that? We can follow the speed limit (25 MPH) for the neighborhood. We can, as we’re transitioning from one street to another (such as from a side street to the Village Green Parkway), think of those intersections as having an implicit yield sign. Take the time to look for other cars, families spending some time walking the neighborhood, neighbors walking their dog or opossum, or kids riding their bikes or skateboards and give them the right of way. This is especially important at night as there are many blind spots and not as well lit areas where one of your neighbors may be not visible or less visible until it is too late.

How else can we help each other? The intersections at Village Green Parkway and Baxter as well as Village Green Parkway by the Marquee/Park have seen an increase in drivers treating the STOP as more of a SLOW. Just recently someone in the neighborhood played chicken with a police officer (driving their personal vehicle at the time) at one of the intersections. Remember back to those driver training courses when you first got your license. The STOP sign is intended to allow you to have the time to determine who else may be in your direct path of motion and allow each of you navigate the intersection and get to your destination safely.

Please share this message with your friends, family, and neighbors. Let’s help keep this neighborhood the safe community it is.

Prepare for Hurricane Season

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June 1 is the first day of Atlantic hurricane season. Take the time to prepare before a storm threatens our region.

Know Your Zone: Evacuation zones are designated A through D and provide clarity on whether you should evacuate in an emergency or shelter at home based on your physical street address and the nature of the emergency event. Review the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s Know Your Zone program.

Make a Plan: Develop a plan for your family and make sure you include pets! Consider the specific needs of your household and create your own plan using templates from Ready.gov.

Pack a Kit: After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency, including medications. Get more information and a handy list on Ready.gov.

Subscribe to NN Alert: Make sure you receive critical information quickly, including public safety and severe weather. Residents can sign up online.

Obtain Flood Insurance: Flood insurance, whether through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private carrier, allows individuals, businesses, and communities to quickly and sufficiently recover after a flood. Most homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies do not cover damage caused by floods. Insurance policies take a minimum of 30 days to go into effect, so start the process now by visiting getfloodfluent.org.

Stay Informed: Follow the National Weather Service’s Wakefield office on Facebook and Twitter for up-to-date storm information and keep an eye on the city’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released their predictions for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. Forecasters predict near-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic this year. NOAA states that the Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be less active than recent years, particularly with a high potential for El Nino to develop this summer, which can suppress Atlantic hurricane activity. Get all the details on the NOAA website.

Pizza, Popcorn, and a Movie at VGCA Neighborhood Watch Event on Saturday, Sept 12

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Movie, pizza, and popcorn at the VGCA Park. On Saturday, Sept 12 please come join us as a family to learn more about the VGCA Neighborhood Watch and have some fun!!! We will eat at 6:30pm and the movie (SCOOB!) will begin around 7pm.

Changes to Phase 3 in Hampton Roads and the impact on the pool…

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Some folks have asked if we are going back to the pool reservations or swim lanes. The short answer is “No” BUT please continue to read below.

According to what I read (and I verified with our health inspector) we can continue to operate the pool as laid out in Phase 3 — which you can read more about here.

As you may have noticed, while I am volunteering as pool manager, I have been wearing a face covering as required by Phase 3. We would encourage others who visit the pool to wear a phase cover while on the pool deck BUT it is not required. Please do NOT wear it while in the pool.

What is required?

  • VGCA Pool will still abide by the 75% capacity rule for outdoor pools The only additional restriction is if the pool is rented for a pool party which is then considered a social gathering and has a maximum of 50 individuals.
  • Folks that are not members of the same household practice 10ft of social distancing while on the pool deck or while in the water. Please help with this and remind your children of these requirements.
  • Continue to see a lifeguard when you enter and answer required questions appropriately before entering the pool deck.
  • Stay home if you feel ill or have been around someone who is ill.
  • Enjoy the pool!

Also, any pool parties or events in the VGCA park must abide by the restriction of a maximum of 50 individuals in a social gathering.

If you have any questions, please me (Donnie Woodruff) or contact the VGCA Board at [email protected].

Be safe, abide by phase 3 requirements, and enjoy the pool!sd

Phase 3 starts Wednesday, July 1

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NOTE: Phase 3 starts July 1st.

The Governor has released Phase 3 Guidelines and swimming pool relevant can be found beginning on page 20 located here. We will continue to follow all local and State orders with regards to operating our pool and will consider all recommendations on pool operations provided by the CDC. We worked closely with our pool inspector for the Peninsula Health Department as we opened and put measures in place to stay within the requirements/limitations for Phase 2. Here are the changes/requirements for the VGCA Pool when Phase 3 starts on July 1st:

  • Pool patrons should clean chairs and tables before and after use. Disinfectant solution is located on the ledge on the clubhouse exterior and paper towels are located in the restrooms.
  • Patrons must answer the following truthfully and to the best of their ability prior to being allowed in the pool area:Do you have any of the following?
    • A fever (100.4 or higher) OR a sense of a fever, now or within the past 24 hours.
    • Shortness of breath or cough.
    • Chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or other flu-like symptoms
    • Are you ill or caring for someone who is ill?
    • In the past 2 weeks have you been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 or have you or a household member visited a high risk area where COVID-19 is spreading?
  • No longer require an online registration.
  • Patrons not in the same household must maintain 10ft of physical distancing on deck as well as in the pool.
  • A maximum of 106 people are allowed in the pool (75% of our 142 swimmer capacity).
  • Free swim is allowed with 10ft of physical distancing.
  • Temporary swim lanes in shallow end are no longer required.
  • Floats, pool toys, etc… are allowed based on established VGCA pool rules.
  • Diving board and the deep end can be used as normal based on established VGCA pool rules. While waiting to dive, a physical distance of 10ft per diver (not in the same household) must be maintained which is marked by an X on the concrete.
  • Seating and physical distancing for pool patrons (not in the same household) will stay at 10ft.
  • 10ft of physical distancing should be done on pool deck AND in the pool.
  • A few more tables and chairs will be put out.
  • Cleaning/disinfecting all high touch points every two hours is required. This includes but is not limited to railings, gates, door knobs, bathroom touch points, and furniture.
  • Patrons that do not follow the mandates of Phase 3 will be asked to leave and upon the 2nd infraction will be referred to the VGCA Board for further action which could lead to revoking of pool privileges.
  • Patrons are not required to wear face coverings/masks while on deck but it is encouraged. Patrons must not wear face coverings/masks while in the pool.
  • Lifeguards and other pool volunteers are required to wear masks while on deck in customer facing situations. Lifeguards are not required to wear masks while in the lifeguard stand.
  • Only one person in a bathroom at at time.
  • Hand sanitizer stations have been provided. Please use one pump per sanitizing.
  • Showers are required before entering the pool.
  • CDC designed signage with regards to COVID-19 has been posted.

As things continue to change in Virginia, the VGCA Board will review and make the appropriate decisions on restrictions/practices we have in place.

Please consider becoming a member and for those already a member…ENJOY our pool and continue to be safe!

Changes to the pool so we can meet Phase 2 mandates

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Must be a member and have registered for a time slot online in order to enter.
COVID19 signage as well as hand sanitizer stations.
One person at a time in the restrooms. Parents should accompany children.
Temporary shallow end lane lines to assist with social distancing requirements.
10 ft of social distancing required in pool area.
Less furniture and 10ft sections are closed off for social distancing.