VDOT prepared for impacts of incoming tropical storm

RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is prepared to address the potential severe weather impacts of Tropical Storm Debby, expected to reach the Commonwealth this afternoon, Wednesday, Aug. 7. 

Impacts from the storm are expected to be felt across the Commonwealth, including heavy rain and strong winds beginning this afternoon, with peak impacts to occur Thursday afternoon into Friday. Localized flooding is possible, and wind gusts may result in downed trees and powerlines, scattered power outages and temporary interruption of services at tunnels and ferries. 

VDOT crews stand ready to respond to road hazards and any damage resulting from the storm. Ahead of the storm, crews have been inspecting drainage facilities and clearing them where necessary, readying trucks and equipment, and coordinating debris and tree removal crews to be on standby.  

As forecasts and conditions could change, travelers should pay close attention to local weather reports and announcements from officials and limit their travels based on conditions. 

SAFETY DURING THE STORM 

The safety of the traveling public and our crews is VDOT’s top priority.  

Stay away from downed wires and do not approach or touch trees or limbs that are entangled with wires as they could be extremely dangerous. If those are in state maintained roadways, VDOT crews must await the power company to remove any electrical hazard before addressing downed trees or other roadway debris. 

Travelers should use extreme caution on roadways: 

• Obey all “road closed” signage. 
• “Turn around, don’t drown” - Do not attempt to travel through flooded roadways. Be alert to debris, downed trees and power lines. 
• Move over for emergency crews operating in or near roadways. 
• Be alert to High Wind Advisories, especially on bridges or taller structures. High-profile vehicles such as tractor trailers, SUVs or box trucks are especially vulnerable and should not cross a bridge when a High Wind Advisory is posted. 

STAY INFORMED 

Prior to travel, the public should check road conditions checking the 511 Virginia mobile app, by visiting www.511Virginia.org or by calling 511 from any phone in Virginia. 

The public should report any concerns such as flooding, downed trees or road hazards to VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or calling 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623). 

For more information about VDOT, including safety information and travel alerts, visit www.vdot.virginia.gov.