In addition to issuing an Ice Storm Warning for the state of Virginia, the National Weather Service provided the public with information on the actions they can take to stay prepared.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued both a Winter Storm Warning and an Ice Storm Warning for Northwest Pocahontas, Southeast Pocahontas, and Southeast Randolph Counties in West Virginia. They have warned that dangerous icy conditions could lead to widespread disruptions.The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 11 a.m. this morning (February 12, 2025), at which point the Ice Storm Warning will take effect and continue through 4 a.m. Thursday (February 13).Forecasters predict significant ice accumulation, with additional ice buildup reaching up to one-tenth of an inch. By the end of the storm, total ice accumulation is expected to reach approximately four-tenths of an inch.Wind gusts could also reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. Ice accumulation on power lines and trees could lead to widespread and long-lasting power outages. Additionally, travel will likely become extremely hazardous, with roads, bridges, and overpasses turning slick and difficult to navigate.The storm is expected to severely impact both the morning and evening commutes on Wednesday, making travel nearly impossible in some areas.The NWS is strongly urging residents to avoid travel as icy conditions continue to worsen across the affected areas. However, if travel is absolutely necessary, they recommend carrying an extra flashlight, food, and water in case of an emergency. Because widespread power outages are possible, early preparation is essential.For those needing updates on road conditions, information can be obtained by calling 511 or accessing the online traffic and roadway portal for the respective state.Additional details and updates from the National Weather Service can be found at weather.gov/rlx, as well as on official Facebook and Twitter pages. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during the storm.Although the NWS has provided precautionary measures people who need to travel can take, the Virginia State Police (VSP) is urging drivers to stay off the roads as winter weather continues to create hazardous travel conditions across the region.The authorities’ plea to the public follows their response to 849 crashes statewide as of 7 a.m. today. From that number, there are 87 reported injuries.In the Appomattox Division, which includes Staunton, Charlottesville, Lynchburg, and South Boston, officers have reported 108 crashes with seven injuries. Meanwhile, in the Wytheville Division, which covers Southwestern Virginia, there have been 111 crashes and nine reported injuries.For those who must travel, police are advising drivers to use headlights to improve visibility on the roads, reduce speed to allow for safer reaction times, increase following distance, and avoid tailgating to prohibit rear-end collisions.Additionally, officials stress the importance of wearing seat belts, as many winter-related crashes result in vehicles sliding off roads or into guardrails. According to news outlet WDBJ 7, “Wearing your seat belt protects you from being thrown around the inside of your vehicle and suffering serious injury in a crash.”Drivers are also encouraged to check their vehicles before heading out, ensuring windshield wipers, tire tread, battery life, and fluid levels are in good condition. Police recommend filling up the gas tank in advance and carrying essential supplies such as a window scraper, blanket, bottled water, snacks, a cell phone charger, and a flashlight in case of an emergency.Even though the police have provided helpful tips to safeguard civilians impacted by the harsh weather, authorities continue to urge people to practice extreme caution and warn that conditions may worsen as the storm progresses.
