A powerful winter storm is making its way through Virginia, bringing heavy snowfall, icy roads, and hazardous travel conditions that could disrupt daily life for millions. With snow already falling in many areas and more on the way, residents are being urged to prepare for dangerous road conditions and potential power outages.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning, predicting significant snow accumulations through Thursday. The Virginia Department of Transportation is already working to keep roads clear, but with several inches of snow expected statewide, travel is set to become extremely difficult.
Governor Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency, ensuring that emergency response teams and road crews are prepared to handle the worst of the storm. Officials are urging residents to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel as the snow continues to pile up.
How Much Snow Will Each Region Get?
Central Virginia: A Slippery Commute Ahead
In cities like Richmond, Charlottesville, and Petersburg, snowfall totals are expected to range from 3 to 6 inches. While this may not sound extreme, temperatures will remain cold enough to keep the snow on the ground, creating slick, icy conditions for commuters.
Many untreated roads, side streets, and sidewalks will likely become treacherous, and the morning and evening commutes will be significantly impacted.
Western Virginia: Ice and Snow Combo Makes Roads Hazardous
In Roanoke, Blacksburg, and the Blue Ridge region, snowfall totals are expected to be between 2 to 4 inches, but the bigger concern is ice accumulation. With temperatures hovering near freezing, some areas may see a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain.
Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, and drivers are warned to be extra cautious, especially on rural and mountain roads.
Hampton Roads & Coastal Virginia: Biggest Snowfall of the Year?
The Hampton Roads region, including Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake, is expected to see the most significant snowfall, with totals between 6 and 10 inches. This could be one of the heaviest snowfalls the region has seen in years, and officials warn that coastal winds could make conditions even worse.
Heavy, wet snow combined with gusty winds increases the risk of power outages, so residents should charge their phones, stock up on essentials, and be prepared for possible blackouts.
State of Emergency Declared: What This Means for Virginia Residents
Governor Glenn Youngkin has officially declared a state of emergency, meaning that state resources will be mobilized to help deal with the storm. This declaration allows state troopers, snowplows, and emergency crews to respond more quickly to accidents, road closures, and weather-related incidents.
With snowfall intensifying overnight, Virginia officials are strongly urging residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
Travel Will Be a Nightmare – Stay Off the Roads if You Can!
If you must drive, follow these safety tips:
Reduce speed – Snow and ice will make it harder to stop.
Increase following distance – Give yourself plenty of room behind other vehicles.
Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns – This could cause your car to skid.
Keep an emergency kit in your car – Include blankets, water, snacks, and a flashlight in case you get stranded.
Road crews will be working around the clock, but snowfall rates could outpace their ability to clear the roads. If you don’t need to drive, stay home and wait for conditions to improve.
Will the Snow Melt or Stick Around?
Even after the storm passes, cold temperatures will keep the snow and ice around for several days. Daytime highs will struggle to reach freezing, meaning roads will likely remain slick and hazardous into Friday and possibly the weekend.
Another concern is refreezing overnight, especially on bridges, ramps, and untreated side streets. Drivers should be extra cautious on Thursday and Friday mornings, as black ice will be nearly impossible to see.
Final Tips: How to Stay Safe and Prepare for the Storm
Stock up on food and supplies – If you don’t have essentials, get them now before the roads become too dangerous.
Charge your devices – Power outages are possible, especially in areas with heavy, wet snow.
Dress in layers if you must go outside – Frostbite can happen quickly in freezing temperatures.
Check on elderly neighbors and relatives – Make sure they have heat and enough supplies.
Bottom Line: This Storm Will Cause Disruptions – Be Ready!
This winter storm is set to bring major travel headaches, dangerous road conditions, and possible power outages across Virginia. Even though snowfall amounts will vary by region, the impact will be widespread, and residents should take it seriously.
