“The Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Appomattox Field Office is investigating a fatal fire in Augusta County.
Augusta County officials were notified at approximately 2:20 a.m. Thursday (Jan. 27) of a residence on fire in the 700 block of Purple Cow Road.
After the fire was extinguished, fire crews recovered a deceased adult female and a deceased male juvenile inside the residence.Both bodies have been transported to the Office of the Medical Examiner in Roanoke for examination and autopsy.
An adult male was flown to VCU Medical Center in Richmond for treatment of life-threatening injuries sustained in the fire.
The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation. At this stage of the investigation, there is no evidence to indicate the fire was suspicious in nature.
Corinne N. Geller
Public Relations Director
Virginia State Police”
During the current winter storm impacting the Commonwealth, Virginia State Police troopers have responded to 142 traffic crashes and 162 disabled vehicles since 12:01 a.m. Sunday (Jan. 16) through 12:45 p.m. Sunday (Jan. 16). The majority of those crashes have involved only damage to vehicles. There have been no reported traffic fatalities during this time period.
—————————————————-
Since midnight on Sunday (Jan. 16), Virginia State Police have responded to:
Salem Division: 29 Disabled Vehicles & 32 Traffic Crashes
Virginia State Police remain on the scene of a multi-vehicle backup on Interstate 81 in Roanoke County. At approximately 12:05 p.m. Sunday, a tractor-trailer jackknifed and the cab disconnected from the trailer in the northbound lanes of I-81 at the 134 mile marker. A wrecker is on scene working to get the tractor-trailer re-connected, so the northbound lanes can be cleared and traffic can begin moving again. However, in the backup of traffic, there are two additional reported traffic crashes – one with minor injuries reported and the other with no reported injuries. Fire and EMS have responded to the scene. Please follow 511 Salem for information on the detour. PHOTOS attached.
As the storm continues to cross the state, Virginians are still advised to avoid travel Sunday and overnight into Monday…especially along the Interstate 81 corridor. Open highways allow VDOT crews to safely and effectively treat the roads.
If you MUST travel during the storm, please take these safety tips into consideration:
· Know Before You Go! Before heading out, check Virginia road conditions at www.511virginia.org or download the VDOT 511 app. Do not call 911 or #77 for road conditions. Please leave these emergency lines open for emergencies only.
· Clear ALL snow and ice from the roof, trunk, hood and windows of your vehicle – car, SUV, minivan, pickup truck, commercial vehicle – before you travel.
· Use your headlights – in rain and snow. Virginia law requires headlights on when your wipers are active.
· Drive for conditions – slow your speed and increase your traveling distance between the vehicle ahead of you.
· Always buckle up.
· Avoid distractions – put down the phone.
· As the storm moves through the state, there will be an increased chance of encountering emergency vehicles assisting motorists. If it is safe to do so, carefully move over and give these responders plenty of room to safely work.
—
Shelby Crouch
Public Relations Coordinator
Virginia State Police
A wind driven snow mixed with sleet and freezing rain falls in Roseland, Virginia of Nelson County. Sunday afternoon – January 16, 2022.
From VDOT Lynchburg, 4:10 PM
VDOT ROAD CREWS FACE CHALLENGING CONDITIONS
Falling snow has turned to sleet and ice in many areas in the Lynchburg District
Lynchburg, Va. – In many areas within VDOT’s Lynchburg District, the steady snowfall has turned to sleet. Ice on the roadways is now a major concern. VDOT continues to urge motorists to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. The storm is expected to leave the Lynchburg District area between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., meaning we still have several hours of precipitation yet to come.
VDOT crews have been plowing roads all day and will continue until all roads are passable. Crews are first treating primary roads before moving on to secondary roads. Looking ahead, ice-covered roadways are a threat overnight and into tomorrow, as there is a risk of refreeze on the roadways.
Keep in mind, due to the colder temperatures we are seeing now, this storm is different from the storm we faced on Jan 3. It may take crews more time and effort to clear the roads this time around.
Those who must travel should maintain a safe speed, increase following distance and visit 511virginia.org to check conditions before driving. Motorists are advised to have an emergency kit inside their vehicle with things like food and water, blankets, hats and gloves, jumper cables, a flashlight and batteries and a working cell phone.
VDOT’s Customer Service Center is open 24 hours a day to answer questions and take reports of roadway hazards. Call 1-800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623) or contact us online at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov
To view VDOT plow truck locations, visit vdotplows.org
Lynchburg, Va. – VDOT continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. The latest information suggests a shift in snow totals and ice accumulation. While maximum snow amounts are trending downward, the amount of ice and freezing rain to hit our region is going up.
“It is recommended that motorists stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary,” said Gerry Harter, District Maintenance Engineer. “As bad as snow is on the roads, ice is much worse as far as impacts to traction are concerned. Our crews are ready and waiting. This storm is expected to bring us snow, sleet and freezing rain, so our response will change along with conditions.”
In addition to heavy snow and icy conditions, the forecast is now calling for even stronger winds, particularly Sunday night into Monday morning. That means downed trees and power lines and power outages are major concerns. VDOT urges the public to complete preparations for the storm now and plan to wait the storm out safely indoors.
Those who must be on the road during the storm should maintain a safe speed, increase following distance and visit 511virginia.org to check conditions before travel. To view VDOT plow locations once plowing operations have begun, visit vdotplows.org
VDOT’s Customer Service Center is open 24 hours a day to answer questions and take reports of roadway hazards. Call 1-800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623) or contact us online at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov.
From NWS : A Winter Storm Waring will take effect for most of the area on Sunday. Heavy snow is expected throughout the day. For the latest weather watches or warnings, visit our alerts page by clicking here.
WINTER STORM WARNING
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
1230 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
Nelson-Albemarle-
1230 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
…WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM SUNDAY TO 7 AM
EST MONDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy snow changing to ice. Total snow accumulations of
4 to 6 inches and ice accumulations of one tenth to two tenths
of an inch. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.
* WHERE…Nelson and Albemarle Counties.
* WHEN…From 10 AM Sunday to 7 AM EST Monday.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Snow could fall at 1 to 3 inches per hour
for a time late Sunday, making roads nearly impassable for a
time.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on
steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery,
increasing your risk of a fall and injury.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
1230 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
Augusta-Central Virginia Blue Ridge-
1230 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
…WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM SUNDAY TO 7 AM
EST MONDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy mixed precipitation. Additional snow
accumulations of 5 to 8 inches and ice accumulations of around
one tenth of an inch. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph.
* WHERE…Central Virginia Blue Ridge, and Augusta County.
* WHEN…From 10 AM Sunday to 7 AM EST Monday.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Snow could fall at 1 to 3 inches per hour
for a time late Sunday, making roads nearly impassable for a
time.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on
steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery,
increasing your risk of a fall and injury.
&&
$$
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
1230 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
Rockingham-Page-Northern Virginia Blue Ridge (including Big Meadows)–
1230 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
…WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM SUNDAY TO 7 AM EST
MONDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy snow changing to ice. Total snow accumulations of
4 to 8 inches and ice accumulations of around two tenths of an
inch. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph.
* WHERE…Rockingham and Page Counties, and Northern Virginia
Blue Ridge.
* WHEN…From 10 AM Sunday to 7 AM EST Monday.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Snow could fall at 1 to 3 inches per hour
for a time late Sunday, making roads nearly impassable for a
time.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on
steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery,
increasing your risk of a fall and injury.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Blacksburg VA
1200 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
Craig-Alleghany VA-Bath-Botetourt-Rockbridge-Bedford-Amherst–
Summers-Monroe-Eastern Greenbrier-Western Greenbrier-
Including the cities of New Castle, Clifton Forge, Covington,
Hot Springs, Fincastle, Lexington, Buena Vista, Amherst, Hinton,
Hix, Union, Lewisburg, White Sulphur Springs, Quinwood, Duo,
and Rainelle
1200 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
…WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM SUNDAY TO
7 AM EST MONDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow
accumulations of 4 to 7 inches with up to a foot possible along
the Alleghanies, and ice accumulations of around two tenths of
an inch. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.
* WHERE…Portions of central, south central, southwest and west
central Virginia and southeast West Virginia.
* WHEN…From 7 AM Sunday to 7 AM EST Monday.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…The heavy snow and gusty winds,
especially Sunday afternoon through Monday, may down tree
limbs and cause power outages.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
Please report snow, sleet or ice accumulations via email at
rnk.skywarn@noaa.gov or by calling the National Weather Service
toll free at…1…866…2 1 5…4 3 2 4. Leave a message with
your observation and the specific location where it occurred. You
can also post your report to National Weather Service Blacksburg
Facebook page and on Twitter.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Blacksburg VA
1200 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
Campbell-Appomattox-Buckingham-Charlotte-
Including the cities of Lynchburg, Appomattox, and Keysville
1200 PM EST Sat Jan 15 2022
…WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM SUNDAY TO
7 AM EST MONDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow
accumulations of 2 to 4 inches and ice accumulations of one
tenth to two tenths of an inch. Winds gusting as high as 35
mph.
* WHERE…Buckingham, Appomattox, Charlotte and Campbell
Counties.
* WHEN…From 7 AM Sunday to 7 AM EST Monday.
* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Snow and ice accumulations, as well as
gusty winds on Sunday afternoon through Monday, may down tree
limbs and cause power outages.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
Please report snow, sleet or ice accumulations via email at
rnk.skywarn@noaa.gov or by calling the National Weather Service
toll free at…1…866…2 1 5…4 3 2 4. Leave a message with
your observation and the specific location where it occurred. You
can also post your report to National Weather Service Blacksburg
Facebook page and on Twitter.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
Snowfall Map via CBS19 Charlottesville, VA : Estimated snowfall from an approaching winter storm through Monday.
Central Virginia Blue Ridge
Another major winter storm is headed for the Blue Ridge and preparations are now underway for the second storm since the new year. CBS19 Meteorologist AJ Willy posted their estimations of snowfall by Monday morning in the map above and Facebook post below.
WINTER STORM WARNING
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Blacksburg VA
828 PM EST Fri Jan 14 2022
Craig-Alleghany VA-Bath-Botetourt-Rockbridge-Bedford-Amherst-
Summers-Monroe-Eastern Greenbrier-Western Greenbrier-
Including the cities of New Castle, Clifton Forge, Covington,
Hot Springs, Fincastle, Lexington, Buena Vista, Amherst, Hinton,
Hix, Union, Lewisburg, White Sulphur Springs, Quinwood, Duo,
and Rainelle
828 PM EST Fri Jan 14 2022
…WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM SUNDAY TO 7 AM EST
MONDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy snow expected, mixed with sleet a times. Total snow
accumulations of 5 to 8 inches, with up to a foot possible along
the Alleghanys. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.
* WHERE…Portions of central, south central, southwest and west
central Virginia and southeast West Virginia.
* WHEN…From 7 AM Sunday to 7 AM EST Monday.
* IMPACTS…Travel will be very difficult to impossible. The
hazardous conditions will impact the Monday morning commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…The heavy snow and gusty winds, especially
Sunday afternoon through Monday, may down tree limbs and cause
power outages.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow means severe winter weather
conditions are expected. Significant amounts of snow are forecast
that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an emergency. If
you must travel…have a winter survival kit with you.
Please report snow and sleet accumulations via email at
rnk.skywarn@noaa.gov or by calling the National Weather Service
toll free at…1…866…2 1 5…4 3 2 4. Leave a message with
your observation and the specific location where it occurred. You
can also post your report to National Weather Service Blacksburg
Facebook page and on Twitter.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.”
From Virginia State Police: “As many are making plans now for what they’ll do over the long weekend, the Virginia State Police is advising everyone to be weather aware and factor in how the pending winter storm can/will impact those travel plans.
As of today, the weather forecasts have all regions of Virginia being affected by varying combinations of precipitation starting late Saturday, Jan. 15, and continuing through Sunday, Jan. 16. This winter storm system is also expected to impact much of the East Coast, especially along the I-95 corridor – for those who may be traveling out of or returning to Virginia over the weekend.
For the latest on this weather system and to help Virginians plan ahead, please visit any one of the following National Weather Service websites:
The Virginia State Police is currently preparing for this latest round of winter weather and will have all available troopers on patrol in order to respond as quickly as possible to traffic crashes, emergencies and disabled motorists.
VSP is advising folks to delay/avoid travel during the storm. But, If you must travel, then please take these safety tips into consideration:
– Know Before You Go! Before heading out, check Virginia road conditions at www.511virginia.org or download the VDOT 511 app.
– Clear ALL snow and ice from the roof, trunk, hood and windows of your vehicle – car, SUV, minivan, pickup truck, commercial vehicle – before you travel.
– Drive for conditions – slow your speed and increase your traveling distance between the vehicle ahead of you. Always buckle up. Avoid distractions – put down the phone.
– Use your headlights – in rain AND snow. Virginia law requires headlights on when your wipers are active.
– Do not call 911 or #77 for road conditions. Please leave these emergency lines open for emergencies only.
– Bring with you snacks, water, cell phone charger, warm blanket(s), and any medications you might need.
– Be sure your vehicle has a fuel tank of gas, and is in good working condition.
Corinne N. Geller
Public Relations Director
Virginia State Police”
From VDOT Culpeper Division:
“MAKE PREPARATIONS NOW FOR FORECAST WINTER WEATHER
Another major winter storm expected to impact travel across Va. beginning Sunday morning
CULPEPER — Crews in the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Culpeper District are closely monitoring weather forecasts and preparing for another major winter storm that is expected to arrive early Sunday and drop a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain on Piedmont Virginia through the day. Similar conditions are expected across most of the Commonwealth.
Crews are pretreating Interstate 64, I-66 and major highways across the district today with a brine solution that will help melt precipitation as it begins. Drivers across Virginia will see similar pretreatment all day today and should give the brine trucks and escort vehicles plenty of room to work.
VDOT urges the public to complete preparations for the storm today and tomorrow so they do not have to travel during the storm. For those who must travel during winter weather, be prepared with essential items, including:
Keep at last a half-tank of fuel in the vehicle
Keep a blanket in the vehicle
Keep winter clothing in the vehicle: Winter coat, heavy shoes or boots, gloves and a hat
A snow shovel and a bag of sand or cat litter
Jumper cables, a flashlight and batteries, ice scraper, phone charger and map (in case your phone battery goes dead)
Non-perishable snacks and water
Those who must be on the road during the storm should reduce speed, increase following distance and use VDOT’s free 511 tools to find out about road conditions along the route.
VDOT crews will report to work Sunday morning to complete preparations. Once precipitation begins falling, VDOT snowplow operators and contract crews will treat roads with salt and sand to aid melting and improve traction. If snow accumulates to about two inches, the plows will push the snow off the roadways. Crews will work around the clock to clear roads, beginning with interstates and primary highways, then shifting to secondary roads and neighborhoods once the main roads are passable.
VDOT’s Customer Service Center is open 24 hours a day to answer questions and take reports of roadway hazards. Call 1-800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623) or contact us online at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov.
Graphic Via NWS : A Winter Storm Warning (in pink) is in effect late Thursday. Other areas down below are under a Winter Weather Advisory late Thursday. Significant winter precipitation is possible with this system, especially in the higher elevations such at Wintergreen and along the BRP and Skyline Drive. For the absolute latest winter weather updates, click here for our weather alerts page.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
233 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
Northern Virginia Blue Ridge-Central Virginia Blue Ridge
(Including Wintergreen, Montebello, Afton Mountain & Big Meadows)
233 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
…WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THURSDAY TO 3 AM EST
FRIDAY…
* WHAT…Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches.
* WHERE…Northern Virginia Blue Ridge and Central Virginia Blue
Ridge.
* WHEN…From 6 PM Thursday to 3 AM EST Friday.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous
conditions could impact the Thursday evening commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…The heaviest snow is expected mid to late
Thursday evening when snowfall rates of 1 inch per hour are
possible.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
233 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
Nelson-Albemarle-Orange–
233 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THURSDAY TO 3 AM
EST FRIDAY…
* WHAT…Snow. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. Isolated
higher amounts of around 4 inches are possible.
* WHERE…Nelson, Albemarle and Orange Counties.
* WHEN…From 6 PM Thursday to 3 AM EST Friday.
* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
conditions could impact the Thursday evening commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…The heaviest snow is expected Thursday mid
to late evening when snowfall rates of 1 inch per hour are
possible.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Slow down and use caution while traveling.
When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on
steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery,
increasing your risk of a fall and injury.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
233 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
Augusta-Rockingham-Page-
233 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THURSDAY TO 3 AM
EST FRIDAY…
* WHAT…Snow. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches. Isolated
higher totals of around 6 inches are possible.
* WHERE…Augusta, Rockingham and Page Counties.
* WHEN…From 6 PM Thursday to 3 AM EST Friday.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous
conditions could impact the Thursday evening commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…The heaviest snow is expected Thursday mid
to late evening when snowfall rates of 1 inch per hour are
possible.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Slow down and use caution while traveling.
When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on
steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery,
increasing your risk of a fall and injury.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Blacksburg VA
1254 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
Alleghany VA-Rockbridge-
Including the cities of Clifton Forge, Covington, Lexington,
and Buena Vista
1254 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM THURSDAY TO 7 AM
EST FRIDAY…
* WHAT…Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4
inches.
* WHERE…Alleghany VA and Rockbridge Counties.
* WHEN…From 1 PM Thursday to 7 AM EST Friday.
* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. The
cold wind chills as low as zero could result in hypothermia if
precautions are not taken.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Northwest winds will gusts upwards of 30 to
35 mph along the ridges Friday morning which will result in
blowing snow and reduced visibilities.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means that periods of snow
will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered
roads and limited visibilities…and use caution while driving.
Please report snow, sleet or ice accumulations via email at
rnk.skywarn@noaa.gov or by calling the National Weather Service
toll free at…1…866…2 1 5…4 3 2 4. Leave a message with
your observation and the specific location where it occurred. You
can also post your report to National Weather Service Blacksburg
Facebook page and on Twitter.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Blacksburg VA
1254 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
Ashe-Alleghany NC-Watauga-Smyth-Bland-Giles-Wythe-Pulaski-
Montgomery-Grayson-Carroll-Floyd-Craig-Roanoke-Botetourt-Patrick-
Franklin-Bedford-Amherst–
Including the cities of West Jefferson, Sparta, Boone, Marion,
Bland, Pearisburg, Wytheville, Radford, Pulaski, Blacksburg,
Independence, Whitetop, Troutdale, Volney, Galax, Floyd,
New Castle, Roanoke, Salem, Fincastle, Stuart, Rocky Mount,
and Amherst
1254 PM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM THURSDAY TO 7 AM
EST FRIDAY…
* WHAT…Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4
inches.
* WHERE…Portions of central, south central, southwest and west
central Virginia and northwest North Carolina.
* WHEN…From 1 PM Thursday to 7 AM EST Friday.
* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. The
cold wind chills as low as zero could result in hypothermia if
precautions are not taken.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Northwest winds will gusts upwards of 30 to
35 mph along the ridges Friday morning which will result in
blowing snow and reduced visibilities.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means that periods of snow
will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered
roads and limited visibilities…and use caution while driving.
Please report snow, sleet or ice accumulations via email at
rnk.skywarn@noaa.gov or by calling the National Weather Service
toll free at…1…866…2 1 5…4 3 2 4. Leave a message with
your observation and the specific location where it occurred. You
can also post your report to National Weather Service Blacksburg
Facebook page and on Twitter.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
Photo courtesy of CVEC : A lineman works to restore power along a damaged section of lines after a a heavy wet snow on January 3rd took out electricity to tens of thousands of customers across parts of Virginia.
Central Virginia Blue Ridge
By Tommy Stafford
Power crews continue working long hours to get the lights back on for people living in the Central Virginia Blue Ridge.
As of 7:30 AM Wednesday morning (January 5th) just under 14,000 people were still without power on the CVEC system across the area. This does not include those without power on neighboring systems such as AEP and Dominion. You can click on the image above to see the lates updates from CVEC’s outage map.
Image capture from Dominion Power : As of 7:40 AM Wednesday (January5th) Dominion Power was showing just over 17,000 customers still in the dark in Albemarle County. Click on image above to see the latest updates.
The task of restoring power has been a tough one since ice and snow still cover the ground making it very difficult to get into many of the remote areas where trees are across power lines or broken poles.
Central Virginia Electric has been posting continuous updates on their Facebook page through the recovery from the storm.
Via NWS : A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for area along and west of the Blue Ridge Parkway for late Thursday. This watch includes places on the parkway such as Wintergreen, Montebello, Afton Mountain and Big Meadows. The watch area may be expanded to the east in the coming hours. For the absolute latest updates check our weather alerts page by clicking here.
WINTER STORM WATCH
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
436 AM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
Augusta-Rockingham-Page-Eastern Highland- Northern Virginia Blue Ridge-Central Virginia Blue Ridge
-Eastern Pendleton-
436 AM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
…WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY AFTERNOON
THROUGH LATE THURSDAY NIGHT…
* WHAT…Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations up to 6
inches possible.
* WHERE…Portions of the central Shenandoah Valley and the Blue
Ridge Mountains.
* WHEN…From Thursday afternoon through late Thursday night.
* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
conditions could impact evening commute Thursday as well as
the morning commute Friday. Snow covered and slippery roads
are possible.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Blacksburg VA
320 AM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
Alleghany VA-Bath-Rockbridge–
Including the cities of Clifton Forge, Covington, Hot Springs, Lexington, and Buena Vista
320 AM EST Wed Jan 5 2022
…WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH
FRIDAY MORNING…
* WHAT…Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 5
inches possible.
* WHERE…Alleghany VA, Bath and Rockbridge Counties.
* WHEN…From Thursday afternoon through Friday morning.
* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. Wind
chills in the single digits could result in hypothermia if
precautions are not taken.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Northwest winds will gusts upwards of 20 to
30 mph along the ridges Friday morning into Friday afternoon.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow…sleet…or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.
Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite source of
weather information for the latest updates. Additional details
can be found at www.weather.gov/blacksburg.
Just before daylight Monday – January 3, 2022, heavy wet snow began falling all across the Central Virginia Blue Ridge. As of 10:30 AM at least 5″ of heavy compacted snow had fallen in South Nelson County, VA in Roseland. Higher amounts in other locations.
Central Virginia Blue Ridge
As predicted, a heavy, wet, blanketing snow hit across the area just before daylight Monday morning. It all started as rain before daylight, but all turned to snow by early morning.
Image via CVEC app : As of 10:30 AM Monday morning just over 16,000 customers on their systems were shown without power. The heavy wet snow has been bringing down power lines and trees all across the area. The numbers do not include other area systems like AEP and Dominion who also have customers out as well.
Roads are also in pretty bad shape with drivers reporting hazardous conditions all across the area.
Raymond Coffman sent us this photo as he was approaching Reeds Gap just before daylight Monday – January 3, 2022. Roads only got worse as daylight started.
From VSP:
“State police have responded to 313 traffic crashes and aided 277 disabled/stuck motorists since 12:01 a.m. Monday (Jan. 3) through 10:30 a.m. Monday (Jan. 3). The majority of those crashes have involved only damage to vehicles. There have been no reported fatalities at this time.
As of 10:30 a.m. Monday (Jan. 3), state police are currently responding to 137 traffic crashes and 119 disabled/stuck vehicles across the state.
State police is still on the scene of a jackknifed tractor-trailer blocking the westbound lanes on Interstate 64 at the 168 mile marker in Goochland County. There were no injuries and the tractor-trailer is hauling 18,000 lbs of plastic furniture.
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From 12:01 a.m. through 10:30 a.m. Monday, Virginia State Police have responded to:
If you must travel during the storm:
– Know Before You Go! Before heading out, check Virginia road conditions at www.511virginia.org or download the VDOT 511 app.
– Clear ALL snow and ice from the roof, trunk, hood and windows of your vehicle – car, SUV, minivan, pickup truck, commercial vehicle – before you travel.
– Use your headlights – in rain AND snow.
– Drive for conditions – slow your speed and increase your traveling distance between the vehicle ahead of you.
– Buckle Up.
– Avoid distractions – put down the phone.
– Do not call 911 or #77 for road conditions. Please keep these lines open for emergency calls.
Corinne N. Geller
Public Relations Director
Virginia State Police”
From VDOT Lynchburg:
Lynchburg, Va. – Many areas have received multiple inches of snowfall and snow continues to come down at a quick pace, with many areas seeing snowfall rates at greater than one inch per hour. We continue to experience strong winds and receive reports of downed trees on roadways and vehicles in ditches.
Snow plowing continues but with the rapid rate of snowfall, cleared roads are becoming snow-covered again quickly. Visit 511virginia.org or call 511 for up-to-date information on road and traffic conditions.
The storm is expected to move out of the Lynchburg District early this afternoon. There is a risk of re-freezing on roadways this evening and overnight, beginning anywhere from 4 to 7 p.m., depending on elevation and local temperature variances. Drivers are asked to avoid driving if possible and be extra careful when on the roads, watch out for slick and icy spots and give themselves extra time to arrive at their destination.
Len Stevens
VDOT Lynchburg
From VDOT Staunton / Ken Slack:
“HAZARDOUS DRIVING CONDITIONS THROUGHOUT THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY ON MONDAY
STAUNTON – (11 a.m.) The first major storm of the winter season has brought 2 to 10 inches of snow as of mid-day Monday in the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands. Snowfall is expected to taper off Monday afternoon, but many roadways are snow-covered and slippery.
The Virginia Department of Transportation urges motorists to postpone travel until after the storm abates and conditions improve. Re-freezing is likely beginning late Monday afternoon, so icy roadways are possible for the evening commute.
VDOT employees and contractors have been plowing and treating roadways throughout the 11-county Staunton District since early Monday morning. They work around the clock on rotating 12-hour shifts until all roads are passable.
Here are the road conditions as of 11:00 a.m. Monday:
Interstate 64 – Moderate conditions in Alleghany, Rockbridge and Augusta counties.
Interstate 66 – Moderate conditions in Warren County.
Interstate 81 – Moderate conditions in Rockbridge, Augusta and Shenandoah counties. Minor conditions in Rockingham and Frederick counties.
Primary roads – Moderate conditions in Alleghany, Rockbridge, Augusta, Rockingham, Page, Shenandoah, Clarke and Warren counties. Minor to moderate conditions in Frederick County. Minor conditions in Bath and Highland counties.
Secondary roads – Moderate conditions in Alleghany, Bath, Rockbridge, Augusta, Rockingham, Page, Shenandoah, Clarke and Warren counties. Minor conditions in Highland and Frederick counties.
For winter weather road conditions go to http://www.511Virginia.org, look at the orange bar on the top of the page and click on “Text Views” and then click on “Road Condition Table”. Look at the pull down box that lists all jurisdictions. In this box individual counties can be chosen to view.
On the go? Then visit VDOT’s Free Virginia 511 Tools to get your 511 app for android or iOS. Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511.
The VDOT Customer Service Center can be accessed through its mobile friendly website at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov/. Agents are on site 24/7 every day of the year to assist the public. People can also call the VDOT Customer Service Center at 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623).
The Staunton District Snow Page is on the VDOT website under Travel Center Snow Emergency Pages. The Staunton District Twitter feed is at @VaDOTStaunton.
VDOT can be followed on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter and YouTube. RSS feeds are also available for statewide information. The VDOT Web page is located at http://www.VirginiaDOT.org.
The VDOT Staunton District serves Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany and Bath counties.
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Road condition definitions:
Severe – drifting or partially blocked road.
Moderate – snow or ice on major portions of the roadway.
Minor – bare pavement except for isolated spots of snow, ice or slush.”
See many more snow photos from all across the area in our BRL Facebook post by clicking on the image above.Mid morning Monday National Weather Service radar our of Blacksburg show intense snow falling across the area.
We will be updating this post with more photos from around the area and more information as it comes in. Meanwhile you can see lots of photos posted to our BRL Facebook page here.
Via NWS: A WINTER STORM WARNING has been issued for all of Nelson and the mountains from 1 AM Monday until 1PM that afternoon. For the absolute latest weather updates click the image above or go to our weather alerts page by clicking here.
Central Virginia Blue Ridge
A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for all of Nelson County including the mountains of Wintergreen, Montebello, Afton and Humpback Rocks. The warning also includes some surrounding counties. Additional winter weather products have also been issued for other nearby counties. Some of those are down below. Others can be found on our weather alerts page, click here.
Tommy
WINTER STORM WARNING
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
1203 PM EST Sun Jan 2 2022
Nelson-Central Virginia Blue Ridge - (Including Wintergreen)
1203 PM EST Sun Jan 2 2022
...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 1 PM EST
MONDAY...
* WHAT...Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 4 to 7
inches.
* WHERE...Central Virginia Blue Ridge, and Nelson County.
* WHEN...From 1 AM to 1 PM EST Monday.
* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning commute.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on
steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery,
increasing your risk of a fall and injury.
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC
1203 PM EST Sun Jan 2 2022
Augusta-Albemarle-Greene-Orange-Northern Virginia Blue Ridge-
1203 PM EST Sun Jan 2 2022
...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 1 PM EST MONDAY...
* WHAT...Heavy snow. Snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches, up to 7
inches across the higher terrain.
* WHERE...Augusta, Albemarle, Greene and Orange Counties, and
Northern Virginia Blue Ridge.
* WHEN...From 1 AM to 1 PM EST Monday.
* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous
conditions could impact the morning commute.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on
steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery,
increasing your risk of a fall and injury.
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Blacksburg VA
1142 AM EST Sun Jan 2 2022
...HEAVY SNOW TO IMPACT MONDAY MORNING COMMUTE...
.An area of low pressure will move through the Carolinas tonight
and early Monday, while cold air sinks into the southern
Appalachians behind an upper level storm system. This will bring a
change from rain to snow starting in the mountains shortly after
midnight, then reaching the piedmont around or just after dawn.
The snow will end by early afternoon.
Roanoke-Botetourt-Rockbridge-Franklin-Bedford-Amherst-
Pittsylvania-Campbell-Appomattox-Buckingham-
Including the cities of Roanoke, Salem, Fincastle, Lexington,
Buena Vista, Rocky Mount, Amherst, Danville, Lynchburg,
and Appomattox
1142 AM EST Sun Jan 2 2022
...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 3 AM TO NOON EST
MONDAY...
* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 6
inches.
* WHERE...Portions of central, south central and west central
Virginia.
* WHEN...From 3 AM to noon EST Monday.
* IMPACTS...Travel could be difficult. The hazardous conditions
could impact the morning commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The gusty winds and wet snow could cause
limbs to snap, especially along the Blue Ridge. This could
result in power outages.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
Please report snow accumulations via email at
rnk.skywarn@noaa.gov or by calling the National Weather Service
toll free at...1...866...2 1 5...4 3 2 4. Leave a message with
your observation and the specific location where it occurred. You
can also post your report to National Weather Service Blacksburg
Facebook page and on Twitter.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
