VDOT prepares for impacts of Hurricane Helene

RICHMOND— The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is prepared to address any potential weather impacts of Hurricane Helene, expected to begin impacting the commonwealth tonight, Thursday, Sept. 26.

Impacts from the storm are expected to be felt across the commonwealth, particularly in Southwest and parts of Central Virginia. It may bring heavy rain and strong winds beginning this evening and lasting into Friday. Localized flooding is probable due to recent precipitation, and wind gusts may result in downed trees and powerlines and scattered power outages.

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 along their route.

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. 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.
• If traveling, remember, headlights should always be on when wipers are on.
• If traffic signals are out, drivers should treat intersections as four-way stops or follow local law enforcement’s direction.
• “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 511virginia.org.

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.