The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is responding to a winter storm in western Virginia. Crews and contractors are working in 12-hour shifts to plow and treat roads, including those in the Salem District. VDOT advises motorists to avoid travel.
Low temperatures and precipitation are creating hazardous conditions, especially in higher elevations, mountainous areas, and on bridges and overpasses. Plow drivers start clearing snow when it reaches about two inches. Chemicals are used during freezing rain to reduce ice.
The Salem District includes Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Henry, Montgomery, Patrick, Pulaski, and Roanoke counties. VDOT gives priority to interstates and primary highways…