VDOT News - Northern Virginia

FAIRFAX - Conditions ranging from snow bands with reduced visibility to significant icing and potential for downed trees are expected for Northern Virginia today and Friday, which would make travel hazardous.

Drivers should anticipate conditions will change quickly today as the wintry mix moves through the area. VDOT crews are deployed throughout the region, and will continue to work 12-hour shifts around the clock until all roads are passable.

Residents are asked to closely monitor weather and avoid nonessential travel today.

What's Happening Now

The Winter Storm Warning covering VDOT's Northern Virginia District remains through 6 a.m. Friday. Heavy precipitation and a wide range of snow and ice accumulation throughout the day are possible, with potential heavy snow bands in the morning causing reduced visibility. Monitor closely for updates.

VDOT crews are deployed to state-maintained roads and will begin to plow once two inches of snow have accumulated. Close to 3,000 pieces of equipment are available to include removing debris and downed trees or limbs from ice. VDOT Safety Service Patrols are poised to assist with emergencies.

Reminders for Residents Thursday and Friday:

Continue to avoid nonessential travel today and Friday, to avoid hazardous conditions for the duration of snow, sleet and freezing rain, as well as to give crews time to clear and treat roads after the storm ends. Should higher end of forecasts materialize, it will take time to make a passable lane on all roads.

Park in driveways where possible or on a single side of the street to give plows a wider path.

View tips on shoveling driveways, as plows will push some snow back. Take frequent breaks, especially when shoveling heavy, wet snow.

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

If you must drive, be prepared. Have full gas and wiper fluid tanks and an emergency kit; ensure headlights are on, take it slow, and use extreme caution on areas prone to freezing such as bridges, ramps and overpasses. Review these winter driving tips.

Learn more at virginiadot.org/snow and see stats for VDOT in Northern Virginia.

Follow @vadotnova and @NWS_BaltWash for real-time updates.

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