VDOT Preparing for More Hazardous Road Conditions

Another bout of sleet and freezing rain is expected after 7 p.m., and the Virginia Department of Transportation urges motorists to be alert to changing road conditions in northern Virginia tonight. With rain, sleet, and freezing temperatures also forecasted for 4 a.m. tomorrow, drivers are asked to monitor forecasts carefully and postpone or limit travel during the morning rush.

 

By 3 p.m. today, about 1,600 trucks will begin staging along interstates and major roads throughout Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William counties for quick response.

 

Crews pre-treated trouble spots today on interstates 66, 95, 395, and 495—including bridges and ramps prone to freezing such as the Springfield interchange, I-66 at Route 29 and the Capital Beltway interchange at Route 1—with liquid magnesium chloride. Problem spots on other major roads, such as the Fairfax County Parkway and routes 1, 7, 28, 29, 50 and 123, were pre-treated with salt brine.

 

Drivers are encouraged to check current weather, road conditions and traffic cameras before traveling by visitingwww.511Virginia.org or by calling 511.

 

Winter driving tips:

• Ensure that your vehicle is winter-ready, particularly that tires are in good condition.
• Slow down, and keep a five-second distance or more behind other vehicles. Do no pass trucks applying chemicals unless absolutely necessary.
• Be aware of areas prone to freezing such as ramps and bridges.
• When driving on ice, do not slam on brakes. Turn gently and slowly.
• Keep an emergency winter kit in your car.
• Always wear your seatbelt and turn on headlights.