By james art Is about to bring a powerful winter storm Strong snow, freezing rain and strong winds to Virginia, with forecasts warning of Dangerous Travel Conditions, power outage and significant interruptions until Thursday. Thehe National Meteorological Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning For much of the state calls on residents to prepare for a potential life -threatening cold and dangerous conditionsS
Snow, ice and strong winds to create dangerous conditions
The storm is expected to Start early Wednesday morningstarting as snow Before you intensify throughout the day. By Wednesday evening the snowfall will be heavyat a speed of 1 to 2 inches per hour in some areas. As temperatures are hesitant, parts of the state may experience Freezing rain and rainfallMaking roads even more casual.
The forecasters predict a total snow accumulation from 6 to 10 inchesWith higher sums in West Virginia. The accumulation of ice can reach quarter inch in some placesresulting in a risk of Downloaded power lines and wood damageS Wind gusts of 25 to 35 mph It can further complicate the conditions by causing snow and reducing visibility.
Who will be hit the most?
The most severe snowfall is expected through Western and Central VirginiaWith some places that see over the foot snow. Coastal areas will see Less snow but more freezing rainincreasing the risk of black ice and interruption of currentS
- Richmond – 6 to 9 inches of snow, with frozen rain
- Charlotteville – 8 to 10 inches of snow, with icy conditions overnight
- Roanock – 7 to 9 inches of snow, with strong winds, which makes the trip dangerous
- Virginia Beach and coastal areas – 2 to 5 inches of snow, but the freezing rain and rainfall can cause large interruptions
A nightmare for travel expected in the country
Civil servants warn that The trip will be extremely dangerousEspecially from Wednesday night on Thursday morning. Main highways including I-95, I-64 and I-81is expected to become Snowy and icyWith snow blowing, reducing visibility to almost zero at times.
It is also possible to be affected by air travel, with Flight and cancellation delays expected at Richmond International Airport and Dulles International AirportS
Public transport may also be influenced, such as Buses and trains may experience delays due to icy conditionsS
Power outage and freezing temperatures represent additional threats
With ice accumulated by power lineswidespread Current are the main concern. Company companies urging residents to Prepare for prolonged interruptionsespecially in areas where The freezing rain is the loudestS
Temperatures are expected to remain under freezing for much of the weekmeans every snow and ice that falls won’t melt quicklyS This is likely to lead to Prolonged interruptions of travel and dangerous conditions over the weekendS
How to prepare for the storm
- Avoid unnecessary journey. Roads will become dangerous quickly and conditions will get worse by Wednesday and Thursday.
- Prepare for power cuts. Charge your devices, prepare flashlights and batteries, and stock up on durable food.
- Dress warmly. If you need to go out, wear multiple layers, hats, gloves and waterproof boots to avoid frostbite.
- Check the vulnerable neighbors. Older people and those without adequate heating may need help.
- Follow the local time updates. Be informed through the National Meteorological Service and local emergency management agencies.
When will the storm end?
The largest snow is expected to reduce Thursday morningbut Cold temperatures will keep roads smooth and dangerous with daysS Efforts to remove snow can be delayed due to the accumulation of ice and strong windsmeaning Travel interruptions may continue over the weekendS
Officials urge residents to take this storm Seriously and Prepare now For what can be one of the most destructive winter storms of the season. Follow the local news and emergency signals for the most updates.