Virginia road crews prepare for first potential wintry weekend of 2016-17

Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) says its crews are taking advantage of conditions today, Dec. 14, and Thursday, Dec. 15, to treat roads with anti-icing materials in northern Virginia, in anticipation of low temperatures through the rest of week and the potential for wintry precipitation over the weekend.

Throughout Prince William,  Fairfax, Loudoun and Arlington* counties (*Arlington maintains own secondary roads) crews treat about 5,200 lane miles with liquid magnesium chloride or brine in advance of winter weather. This includes interstate, primary and high-volume secondary roads, particularly ramps, bridges, and other critical areas prone to freezing.

In a press release, VDOT is asking drivers to keep an eye on the forecast for freezing conditions and precipitation.

Before venturing out this weekend, VDOT reminds drivers to fill their gas tanks, slow down, to be aware of potential slick spots such as shaded areas and bridges, and to use these resources:

• Check http://www.511virginia.org/ or the 511 mobile app before you go for traffic conditions and lane closures
• Follow @VaDOTNOVA on Twitter
• Visit http://www.virginiadot.org/novaemergency for the latest updates and resources from VDOT in northern Virginia
• Get more details on snow removal in northern Virginia

This is also the perfect time to place or update an emergency kit in your car. Recommended items include:
Water and food
Shovel
Ice scraper/brush
Gloves and boots
Phone charger
First aid kit
Flashlight
Flares
Ice melt / cat litter

More information at: http://www.ready.gov/car