A winter storm warning has been issued for the Rockbridge area – and much of the state – starting Saturday afternoon and running through Monday afternoon.
The snow totals originally predicted have declined, but ice now features prominently in the forecast for the Rockbridge area. According to the latest information from the Weather Channel, the precipitation isn’t expected to start until dark on Saturday. It is to start as all-snow but transition to a wintry mix overnight with a total snow-ice accumulation of 5-8 inches. The wintry mix will then transition to freezing rain as the day goes on Sunday.
Nathan Ramsey of Rockbridge County Emergency Management issued the following press release Thursday:
“As the weekend approaches, forecasted weather conditions for RockbridgeCounty indicate that road travel will be hazardous. Citizens are strongly encouraged to avoid travel if at all possible in order to allow snow removal crews to operate without obstruction.
“Fire and EMS agencies, along with law enforcement officials throughout the county, will remain on standby for immediate response for the duration of the storm, which is expected to taper off Sunday night.
“At the time of this release, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) plans to prioritize Interstate 81, Interstate 64, and primary routes. Crews will move to remaining secondary roads as soon as conditions allow and the heaviest snowfall begins to subside.
“In addition to avoiding unnecessary travel, citizens are asked to keep the following safety reminders in mind:
“1. Check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly, disabled, or may need assistance.
“2. Call 911 only for fire, medical, or life-threatening emergencies. For non-emergency incidents, contact the RockbridgeCounty EmergencyOperations Center at (540) 572-4213. Please do not call this number for general information or weather updates.
“3. Prepare for possible power outages. If you experience an outage, report it directly to your electric service provider:
“4. Do not use unapproved heating sources indoors. Keep toys, clothing, and other combustible materials at least three (3) feet away from all heating devices.
“5. Ensure pets have adequate shelter and protection from the elements.
“6. Continue to monitor local media outlets for updated information and advisories.
Rockbridge County Emergency Management will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as needed.”
On Friday, the city of Lexington declared a winter storm emergency that will go into effect at 9 a.m. on Saturday and remain in effect until 8 a.m. on Monday, though the declaration can be extended if conditions warrant it.
Under the declaration, parking is prohibited on several city streets in the downtown area. Those streets are: South Main Street from Preston Street to the northern city limits; Jefferson Street from North Main Street to Preston Street; and both Nelson and Washington streets between Lee Avenue and Randolph Street. Those streets need to be cleared of cars by 9 a.m. Saturday when the Winter Storm Emergency goes into effect. Any cars left on those streets after that time will be towed.
Residents are asked to move cars from those streets and into private, off-street parking. If off-street parking is unavailable, residents can utilize the following public parking lots: the parking garage at Nelson and Randolph Streets, the Roy Smith Lot off Varner Lane (which can also be accessed from Randolph Street), the “Firehouse Lot” between Main and Jefferson streets across from Salerno’s Restaurant, and McCrum’s Lot on Jefferson Street between Washington and Nelson street (public parking in McCrum’s Lot does not include any reserved spaces in the lot). There will be no charge for parking in those lots during the emergency, and time restrictions in those lots will be suspended while until Monday morning, or as updated by City Manager Tom Carroll.
Updates on the winter storm emergency will be posted on the city’s website (www.lexingtonva.gov) and on social media. Any suggestions or concerns can be relayed to Carroll by email at [email protected].
