Virginia could see a brief period of light freezing rain, with sleet or snow at the onset, beginning tonight and continuing into Tuesday morning across the Shenandoah Valley, the mountains, western Virginia, and portions of the Piedmont. Areas closer to the I-95 corridor and eastern or southeastern Virginia are expected to see plain rain, which will continue throughout the day.
The Virginia State Police is urging drivers to stay aware of changing conditions and monitor updates from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). Before traveling, motorists are encouraged to check road conditions at https://511.vdot.virginia.gov.
Virginia State Police also issued several reminders to help reduce the risk of crashes:
• Use headlights. Better visibility helps you see slick spots early and makes your vehicle more visible to others.
• Slow your speed. Even with VDOT monitoring problem areas, drivers must adjust for conditions. Reducing speed gives more time to react and remain in control.
• Don’t tailgate. Stopping distances increase significantly on wet or icy roads. Leaving more space can prevent rear-end collisions.
• Buckle up. Many winter-weather crashes involve vehicles sliding into guardrails, off the roadway, or into other vehicles. Seat belts prevent serious injury inside the cabin.
• Check your vehicle. Make sure your gas tank is full and your vehicle is winter-ready—wipers, fluid, tire tread, battery, and other essentials.
• Carry emergency items. Bring a window scraper, blanket, bottled water, snacks, a cell-phone charger, and a flashlight.
From a release. Edited by Dan McDermott.
