VDOT asks drivers to plan ahead for Thursday and Friday commutes

Drivers in northern Virginia are asked to prepare for rush hour commutes to be impacted by snow Thursday evening, Dec. 5,  and Friday morning, Dec. 6, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.

Road crews are conducting anti-icing activities today and tomorrow. Please watch for crews as they stage along roads prior to the storm. Crews will treat roads with salt and sand as needed once the storm begins Thursday afternoon, plow in areas where and if snow totals reach two inches, and will remain on duty throughout the course of the storm.

Drivers are asked to:

• Adjust commutes to avoid driving during the storm and factor in additional travel time

• Continue to check weather forecasts, as storm timing and intensity can change. Pavement temperatures are expected to drop below freezing tonight and remain low through the weekend.

• Do not overdrive conditions; reduce speeds and use headlights

• Be patient; remember that many fellow drivers are not comfortable driving in adverse weather conditions

• Take it slow on bridges, ramps, and overpasses, and other known trouble spots

• Ensure gas tanks and windshield wiper fluid tanks are full

Stay informed of current road conditions and VDOT’s efforts:

• Check 511virginia.org or the mobile app for traffic conditions and closures
• Visit virginiadot.org/novaemergency for the latest updates and resources during winter events in northern Virginia
• Follow @VaDOTNOVA on Twitter

Before heading out, take time to update the emergency kit in your car. Here’s how: http://www.ready.gov/car