CULPEPER – Temperatures are hovering around freezing early Monday morning and motorists should anticipate encountering patches of slush or ice as they drive, particularly during morning commuting hours.

Virginia Department of Transportation crews have worked overnight to finish plowing secondary roads across Central Virginia. The crews have also treated cold spots and problem areas. No major problems were reported and most roads are wet, with isolated patches of snow and slush left from Sunday’s storm. Motorists should continue to use caution while driving. Fog is reported across the area in the wake of the storm and travelers should expect reduced visibility as a result.

Across Central Virginia widely varying conditions were reported in the wake of the storm. They ranged from sleet and rain in Fluvanna and Louisa counties to heavy snow in the north. In Fauquier and Rappahannock counties, snow accumulations up to 7 ½ inches were reported. Crews there completed plowing and applying abrasives on the secondary roads overnight. Culpeper County also reported 6 ½ inches of snow; crews finished clearing secondary roads Sunday night.

Farther south the snow totals are lighter, ranging from 4 inches in Madison County to less than 1 inch in eastern Louisa County. All roads in Fluvanna, Louisa, Albemarle and Greene counties are reported wet, although travelers may encounter isolated patches of snow and slush.

If you must travel early Monday morning, allow plenty of extra time and expect to encounter fog or icy conditions. Travelers should also observe the following winter driving tips:

• Make sure your vehicle is winter ready.



• Keep an emergency driving kit in your car and wear your seatbelt.



• Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles.



• Do not attempt to pass snowplows and stay at least 100 feet behind them.



• Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges.



• When driving on ice, don’t slam on your brakes. Travel gently. Turn slowly. Sudden changes can cause your car to spin out of control.



• Don’t park along the street. Snow plow drivers can’t fully clear a road if cars are in their way.

Motorists can get information on the latest road conditions, incidents and weather forecasts by calling 511 from any telephone in Virginia, or on the Web at 511Virginia.org.


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Page last modified: Jan. 17, 2008