RICHMOND, Va. — As temperatures plummeted Monday night into Tuesday, road conditions across Central Virginia grew increasingly hazardous, particularly on side streets. Heavy snowfall earlier in the day had caused significant disruptions, and while main roads showed improvement, secondary roads remained challenging.
CBS 6 conducted a survey of road conditions throughout Richmond, Henrico, and Chesterfield counties as snow plow crews worked diligently to clear routes, including Powhite Parkway. Although primary highways benefited significantly from consistent salting and plowing, many side roads remained buried in snow, with only tire tracks visible for navigation.
Major thoroughfares, such as Broad Street, still displayed a light layer of snow, yet it was evident that substantial progress had been made on primary highways. The Virginia Department of Transportation reported the deployment of around 700 plows throughout the day, focusing efforts on maintaining major roadways and applying necessary treatments. However, crews were challenged by dropping temperatures that diminished the effectiveness of salt.
A spokesperson for the Virginia Department of Transportation stated, “Crews monitor the road conditions, and when they observe icy and slick areas, we transition to abrasives, like sand, which are more effective for traction. Once temperatures fall below freezing, salt no longer melts ice effectively.”
Officials have warned residents to prepare for potential overnight refreezing as temperatures are expected to drop into the teens. This situation poses heightened risks for slick and icy conditions that could severely affect Tuesday morning commutes.
State police continued to advise residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. For those who must venture out, the importance of driving slowly and adapting speed to the treacherous road conditions was emphasized. Additionally, drivers were reminded to maintain at least a 100-foot buffer zone when approaching snow plow crews to ensure their safety while working.
As the cold persists, predictions for Tuesday include returns of sunshine, but the aftermath of the weather events could leave lingering challenges on the roads as Central Virginia residents navigate the wintry conditions.
