VDOT News - Northern Virginia

Significant icing is anticipated with the next wave of inclement weather. With prolonged freezing rain and low pavement temperatures expected through the day Saturday, VDOT strongly advises against nonessential travel. Those who must drive should closely monitor weather and road conditions, and use extreme caution. Even on treated roads, slick pavement will be possible.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory covering VDOT's Northern Virginia District for Saturday morning through Sunday morning, for freezing rain and potential for ice accumulation of one-tenth to two-tenths of an inch. For areas just south of the district, an Ice Storm Warning has been issued.

Crews have positioned materials and equipment, and will apply treatment such as sand and salt as needed to icy patches and trouble spots to improve traction. Tree crews are ready to trim and remove branches weighed down or broken by ice, and to support utility companies on potential downed or entangled lines.

Reminders for Residents and Drivers:

Prepare now to stay off the roads when freezing rain begins. Closely monitor weather reports, and plan ahead to avoid unnecessary travel during the expected freezing rain and ice accumulation. If there is ice on the road, travel will be hazardous and crews will need room to work.

If you must drive: Ensure headlights are on, significantly reduce speeds and add following distance. Brake gently. Anticipate lane changes, turns and curves well in advance and make smooth, controlled movements. Check more winter driving tips.

Monitor road conditions from home on www.511virginia.org or the free mobile app, or call 511 from any phone in Virginia.

Learn more at virginiadot.org/snow and see snow removal information for Northern Virginia.

Information in VDOT news releases was accurate at the time the release was published. For the most current information about projects or programs, please visit the project or program Web pages. You may find those by searching by keyword in the search Virginia DOT box above.