Salem District: VDOT working to plow and treat roads

SALEM (4:15 a.m.) – Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews and contractors are deployed in western Virginia and working in 12-hour shifts, around the clock, to plow and treat roads. The winter storm is expected to continue throughout the day, so VDOT is advising that motorists avoid travel.

Low temperatures can cause changing road conditions that can lead to snow and ice accumulating on roadways, particularly in the higher elevations, cooler spots, mountainous areas and on bridges and overpasses.

As with any winter weather event, VDOT crews and contractors will be working around the clock beginning with interstates and primary highways (those numbered 1-599). Plow drivers begin pushing snow off the roadways once it accumulates to around two inches, and for freezing rain, they will be applying chemicals and abrasives.

Travelers can get real-time information on road conditions, traffic incidents and congestion on Virginia roads by using VDOT’s 511 free mobile app or phone system or on the 511 website at https://511.vdot.virginia.gov/ which can help travelers plan their routes accordingly.

For more updates on local conditions in our area, follow us in our Facebook Community for Salem District at https://www.facebook.com/groups/VDOTSalem or on Twitter @VaDOTSalem.

The Salem District includes the counties of Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Henry, Montgomery, Patrick, Pulaski, and Roanoke.

For questions or to report hazardous road conditions, contact VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or calling 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623).