VDOT crews on standby for potential of freezing rain, sleet and snow across northern Virginia

Virginia Department of Transportation reports that road crews are ready to report tonight, Friday, Dec. 16, for a forecast of low temperatures, freezing rain, sleet and snow across northern Virginia. As many plan to move across the region for shopping and other holiday preparations this weekend, the Virginia Department of Transportation asks drivers to plan accordingly:

•      Avoid driving during winter weather. Consider postponing early-morning travel until pavement temperatures improve and daylight can provide better visibility.

•      Allow plenty of time for weather conditions and increased holiday traffic.

•      Allow plenty of room for road-treatment trucks.

•      Slow down and be aware of potential slick spots.

About 1,100 trucks will report across northern Virginia beginning at 7 p.m. tonight, Dec. 16, to focus on treating roads through the weekend with mixes of salt, sand and liquid magnesium chloride.

VDOT crews took advantage of warmer days earlier in the week to treat roads in advance with anti-icing materials. Through Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William 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, and particularly ramps, bridges, and other critical areas prone to freezing.

Before heading out, use the following resources:

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

This is 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