Heavy, wet snow expected for Thursday commute in the Shenandoah Valley

Heavy, wet snow expected for Thursday commute in the Shenandoah Valley (Image 1) (Copyright by WSLS - All rights reserved)

STAUNTON (WSLS 10) - Heavy snow is expected to impact drivers during the morning and evening commute on Thursday. Many portions of the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands are expected to receive up to eight inches or more throughout the day. 

The Virginia Department of Transportation advises drivers to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. VDOT crews and contractors reported for duty overnight throughout the 11 counties of the Staunton District. They will work rotating 12-hour shifts to plow and treat roads as needed.

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Here are some key facts about storm response in the VDOT Staunton District, by the numbers:

  • 3 – The district is divided into three residencies, which allows us to maximize local experience with weather trends and road conditions.
  • 13 – The number of interchanges along I-81 and I-64 where tow trucks are staged for quick response in case of accidents. We also have increased Safety Service Patrol coverage on the interstates.
  • 48 – It is VDOT's goal to have all state-maintained roads passable within 48 hours after the storm ends. Interstates and primary roads are plowed first, followed by secondary roads and subdivision streets.
  • 511 – VDOT's statewide tool for getting up-to-the-minute road conditions and other vital travel information. It's available on the phone, online and with mobile apps. Free Virginia 511 Tools will give you all the details.
  • 900 – The approximate number of VDOT and contractor trucks out on the roadways of the district, plowing and treating until the job is done.

The VDOT Staunton District serves Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany and Bath counties.