Travelers with destinations beyond Hampton Roads should continue to monitor conditions along their entire route, as forecasts may be more severe in different parts of the state.
Due to the threat of winter weather impacts on the region, motorists traveling into and around Hampton Roads should stay alert for potentially hazardous road conditions throughout this weekend and continuing into early next week. Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Hampton Roads District personnel stand ready to respond with needed materials and equipment to address possible road impacts.
Beginning the morning of Saturday, Jan. 4, crews will start pretreating the district’s interstates and state-maintained primary roads with work continuing until sunset and resuming on Sunday, Jan. 5, until complete. Drivers are urged to stay alert for slow-moving, mobile operations this weekend, giving extra space around any trucks or equipment they may encounter on the roads. Slower travel speeds are required to apply pretreatment onto the road with precision, and to ensure an adequate amount is absorbed in the pavement.
Motorists are encouraged to travel as needed on Saturday, Jan. 4 and should monitor changing weather and road conditions throughout the duration of the inclement weather while being prepared to limit non-essential travel within the district and statewide, should roadway conditions warrant. The Hampton Roads region is predicted to see cold temperatures dipping below or at-freezing with rain, sleet, or snow possible in some areas.
While traveling, motorists should exercise caution, reduce speed and provide extra following distance to ensure safety. Travelers with destinations beyond Hampton Roads should monitor conditions along their entire route, as forecasts may be more severe in different parts of the state, particularly along the I-81 and I-95 corridors, as well as the Fredericksburg, Staunton, Culpeper and Northern Virginia regions.
Crews will work to clear and treat the interstate and state-maintained roadways as needed. Continued treatment operations will include spreading of sand and salt, as needed, on icy patches or slick spots to improve traction.
VDOT maintains all interstates, major state-maintained primary routes, and county roads in Hampton Roads. Individual municipalities maintain their own primary and secondary routes.
Winter weather preparations across the state are underway for interstates and state-maintained roads. District-specific travel alerts and storm information can be found at www.vdot.virginia.gov/news-events/news/.
If travel is unavoidable:
- Visit 511.vdot.virginia.gov/ for the latest road conditions before traveling. If possible, avoid travel until precipitation stops and road conditions improve.
- Give crews time and space to treat roads.
- If you must travel during adverse weather conditions:
- Allow plenty of time to reach your destination
- Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you
- Brake very lightly to keep your tires from slipping on pavement
- Keep an emergency winter weather kit in your vehicle which includes food, water, first aid materials, tools and blankets in the event of a breakdown or stoppage.
Resources:
- Free 511 Virginia Tools — Get the latest traffic conditions before traveling by calling 511, or visiting 511.vdot.virginia.gov/ You also can download Virginia’s free 511 mobile app at Apple and Android app stores.
- 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) — Report road hazards or ask road-related questions at VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by calling this statewide toll-free number.
- Social — Follow on X at @VaDOTHR and @511statewideva for the latest traffic and road updates during a storm.
For more winter driving information, visit www.vdot.virginia.gov/travel-traffic/driver-safety/weather/.
Photo: Example of a VDOT truck engaged in pretreatment activities in advance of expected potential for roadway impacts from ice and snow.
The Newport News Fire Department (NNFD) is calling on local residents to complete an important survey that will help shape the future of fire and emergency services in the community. As part of a strategic planning process, the department seeks input from residents to ensure it continues to meet the needs of those it serves. Community feedback is vital in helping to prioritize the services that are most important to the public.
