The Virginia Department of Transportation is completing preparations for the arrival of the remnants of Hurricane Ian. VDOT encourages residents to finish their own storm preparations as soon as possible as the storm’s effects are forecast to begin affecting Piedmont Virginia Friday afternoon.
For the past several days VDOT crews have been surveying their areas to clear any drainage structures that could be clogged by debris, preparing equipment and ensuring that specialty contractors, such as debris removal crews, will be available over the weekend. During the storm they will coordinate their activities with local first responders and utility crews to remove fallen trees and other hazards.
Heavy rain and high winds are forecast for inland Virginia, with the storm extending through the weekend. VDOT strongly encourages residents to stay weather aware during the storm and make any travel plans with consideration for the weather conditions along their route.
Residents in the vicinity of small streams and those traveling through low-lying areas should be aware that those streams can rise rapidly, overflowing their banks and covering roads. Never attempt to drive on a flooded road – two feet of flowing water can carry away most vehicles, and the road may be washed out. Remember: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
After completing storm preparations on Friday, VDOT crews will remain on-call through the weekend to respond to any reports of storm damage. VDOT’s Customer Service Center is open 24 hours a day to answer questions and take reports of roadway hazards. Call 1-800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623) or contact us online at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov.
During the storm, for the latest information about road closures check 511Virginia.org. A current list of road closures is at Road Conditions Table (511virginia.org). In addition to current traffic conditions and other real-time travel information on the 511 Virginia website, that information is also available on the free VDOT 511 mobile app or by calling 511 from any phone in Virginia. VDOT updates are also on Facebook and the district’s Twitter account, @VaDOTCulp.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up