The National Weather Service warns that parts of the state could see significant snowfall, freezing rain, and excessive rainfall on Tuesday. (Courtesy of National Weather Service)
With a powerful winter storm set to bring up to 6 inches of snow, ice, and flooding across Virginia, Gov. Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency, mobilizing resources to prepare for hazardous conditions expected to hit overnight Monday into Tuesday.
“With another round of winter weather across the state this week forecasted to bring heavy snow and ice, I am declaring a state of emergency so we can move resources around the state,” Youngkin said in a statement.
“I urge all Virginians to monitor your local forecast and to prepare for possible impacts to roadways and infrastructure.”
The National Weather Service warns that parts of the state could see significant snowfall, freezing rain, and excessive rainfall, raising concerns about power outages, flooding, and treacherous travel conditions. In response, Virginia’s Emergency Support Team has been activated to coordinate efforts statewide.
As conditions deteriorate, officials are urging Virginians to avoid unnecessary travel and take precautions if they must be on the roads. State police and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) are working to identify trouble spots, but drivers are reminded to exercise extreme caution:
• Turn on your headlights to improve visibility and help others see you in snowy or icy conditions.
• Slow down — speeding on slick roads can lead to crashes, and reacting in time is harder on icy surfaces.
• Keep a safe following distance to allow for extra stopping room and avoid rear-end collisions.
• Buckle up — most winter-weather crashes involve vehicles sliding off roads or into guardrails, making seat belts a critical safety measure.
• Check your vehicle before leaving if you must drive. Ensure your gas tank is full and inspect wipers, fluid levels, tires, and battery life.
• Pack an emergency kit, including a window scraper, blanket, bottled water, snacks, a phone charger, and a flashlight.
This is the second time this year that Youngkin has declared a weather-related state of emergency. A severe winter storm pummeled Virginia in the first week of January, blanketing the state with heavy snow and ice.
The storm’s impact was particularly devastating in the Richmond area, where it led to a significant water crisis. On Jan. 6, the city’s water treatment plant experienced a power outage due to the storm, causing system failures that resulted in widespread water distribution outages.
Residents across Richmond and surrounding localities faced days without reliable water service, prompting boil-water advisories and emergency responses.
The crisis underscored the vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure to severe weather events and highlighted the importance of preparedness as the state braces for the upcoming storm.
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