RICHMOND — Governor Abigail Spanberger has officially announced a State of Emergency in Virginia due to an impending winter storm expected to impact the Commonwealth starting Saturday and continuing through Monday morning.
Forecasts indicate the storm will begin affecting the far western regions of Virginia on Saturday late morning, gradually moving eastward towards the I-95 corridor by the evening. The slow-moving weather system is anticipated to impact various areas throughout Sunday, with some effects lingering into Monday morning, particularly for those regions east of I-95. The declaration aims to prepare the Commonwealth for effective response and recovery efforts while streamlining processes to aid local communities affected by the storm.
Governor Spanberger emphasized the importance of safety for Virginians, stating, “Today, I am declaring a State of Emergency ahead of the winter weather event to ensure Virginia is fully prepared to respond and recover.” Alongside state agencies, the governor is collaborating with local governments and utility partners to enhance readiness. She urged residents to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and take precautions for their safety and that of their families.
The Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), under the governor’s order, will coordinate with various state agencies, local governments, and private-sector partners to ensure communities are adequately supported. VDEM State Coordinator John Scrivani stressed the importance of situational awareness and encouraged residents to follow guidance from local officials while avoiding travel during adverse weather conditions.
Residents are reminded to prepare ahead of the storm by ensuring their families, homes, and vehicles are ready. To aid in this preparation, VDEM suggests visiting its website for helpful tips on winter weather preparedness. It is crucial for individuals to stay off the roads during the storm and to allow snowplows and emergency responders the right of way. If travel is necessary, motorists should make their journey before the storm intensifies and check road conditions through the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) resources.
The Virginia State Police is also prepared, with troopers ready to monitor road conditions statewide. They will shift to 12-hour shifts as the storm approaches. Motorists are advised to exercise caution by following road safety tips and staying informed about changing conditions.
Authorities recommend simple measures to enhance safety on the roads during the storm. This includes using headlights for improved visibility, clearing snow and ice from all vehicle surfaces, and reducing speed to account for slick roads.
This State of Emergency allows for a proactive approach to a snowstorm that could inconvenience travel and affect daily life in Virginia. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and make safety a priority as the weather event unfolds. For more tips on preparing for winter weather, visit www.vaemergency.gov/winter-weather. The full text of the governor’s order is available on the governor’s official website.