Shenandoah Valley Hit by Snow, Drivers Urged to Stay Cautious

Published on January 12, 2025

A fresh wave of snowfall late Friday and early Saturday has created treacherous travel conditions across the Shenandoah Valley and Alleghany Highlands. Roads, including interstates and primary routes, are slippery, posing significant challenges for motorists, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).

Travelers are urged to postpone their plans until later in the day or Sunday, when warmer temperatures, sunlight, and continued snow-removal efforts are expected to improve conditions.

Stay Alert for Hidden Hazards

VDOT highlights that many secondary roads and residential streets still harbor icy patches from a previous winter storm. The new layer of snow may obscure these hazards, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Drivers should exercise extreme caution, especially on untreated or less-traveled routes.

Crews remain active around the clock, focusing initially on clearing interstates and major roads. Lower-priority routes will be addressed as resources allow.

Road Condition Update

As of early Saturday, road conditions in the VDOT Staunton District were reported as follows:

• Interstates:
  • Interstate 64: Minor issues in Alleghany, Rockbridge, and Augusta counties.
  • Interstate 66: Minor issues in Warren County.
  • Interstate 81: Minor issues in Rockbridge, Augusta, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Frederick counties.
• Primary Roads:
  • Moderate conditions in Alleghany County.
  • Minor conditions in Bath, Rockbridge, Highland, Augusta, Rockingham, Page, Shenandoah, Frederick, Clarke, and Warren counties.
• Secondary Roads:
  • Moderate conditions in Alleghany, Bath, and Rockbridge counties.
  • Minor conditions in Highland, Augusta, Rockingham, Page, Shenandoah, Frederick, Clarke, and Warren counties.

Snow Removal Priorities

VDOT’s snow removal strategy is structured to maximize safety and connectivity:

1. Interstates and high-traffic highways receive priority to ensure critical routes remain operational.
2. Primary roads and key secondary routes that serve emergency services or handle significant traffic are addressed next.
3. Residential streets and low-traffic secondary roads are treated once higher-priority areas are cleared.

Drivers are encouraged to check VDOT’s road condition updates before traveling and remain vigilant on the road. Safe driving practices and preparation are essential during this period of winter weather.