VDOT: "Delay Trips at Least Until This Afternoon"

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Image Courtesy of VDOT Image Courtesy of VDOT
Following a snow storm, which dumped up to ten inches of snow locally, the Virginia Department of Transportation warns residents that ice-covered roads continue to be a problem Friday due to extremely low pavement temperatures and the threat of a rapid refreeze.

"Continue to delay trips, at least until the afternoon today, so that crews can continue to treat icy conditions on all roadways in northern Virginia," VDOT said in a statement. "Even recently treated interstates and roads that appear to be bare pavement are refreezing quickly with extremely low pavement temperatures."

The hazardous conditions caused a tractor trailer accident on eastbound Interstate 66  near the Fauquier County and Prince William County line this morning, which stalled traffic for 5 miles.

 Throughout the morning, police detoured drivers onto Route 245 north to Route 55.

"Crews continue to treat road with mixes of salt, sand and liquid magnesium chloride, however these chemicals are much less effective and work more slowly on road surfaces below 20 degrees," VDOT said. "With pavement temperatures forecasted to remain well below freezing, ice will continue to be a concern throughout the day."

For those who cannot delay travel, UVDOT advises to use extreme caution, increase following distance and do not brake quickly.

"Many vehicles have been observed traveling at dangerous speeds for road conditions," they said. "Roads that appear clear are likely to have many locations covered with black ice."

Residents can continue to check road conditions at www.511virginia.org and should report road problem to 1-800-367-7623 or through the online form at http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/citizen.asp.

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