Roanoke, VA — A wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain swept through the Roanoke area overnight, leaving roads icy and hazardous for morning commuters. As temperatures hover around freezing, city crews are working tirelessly to clear major routes and ensure public safety.

The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory for Roanoke and surrounding areas, warning of treacherous travel conditions through Tuesday evening. The combination of freezing precipitation and overnight refreezing has created slick surfaces, particularly on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses.

Icy Roads Disrupt Morning Commute

Morning commuters faced significant delays as accidents and spinouts were reported across the region. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) urged drivers to use extreme caution and avoid non-essential travel, particularly on secondary roads that have yet to be treated.

“Black ice is the biggest concern right now,” said Mark Campbell, a VDOT spokesperson. “Even a light coating of ice can make roads deceptively dangerous. We advise everyone to slow down, increase following distances, and give plows plenty of room to work.”

Roanoke City Police reported at least 14 minor accidents between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., including two multi-car collisions on Route 460. No serious injuries were reported, but vehicles were seen stranded along the shoulder as emergency responders worked to clear the scene.

Crews Battle the Elements

Crews from the City of Roanoke’s Public Works Department have been out since midnight, focusing first on primary roads and emergency routes. According to city officials, over 25 snowplows and salt spreaders are actively treating roads to combat the icy conditions.

“Our crews are working in shifts around the clock to keep roads passable,” said Thomas Reynolds, Director of Public Works. “The challenge with a wintry mix is that precipitation can quickly wash away salt treatments, so we have to continuously reapply.”

The city has stocked up on supplies ahead of the storm, including 2,000 tons of road salt and sand. Residents can track the progress of snowplows in real-time using the VDOT Snow Plow Tracker, which shows treated areas and plow locations.

Schools and Businesses Impacted

The icy conditions have led to widespread disruptions in daily routines. Roanoke City Public Schools announced closures for the day, with some schools shifting to virtual learning to avoid losing instructional time. Several businesses delayed openings, while public transit services operated on reduced schedules.

A spokesperson for Valley Metro, Roanoke’s public transit system, confirmed that bus services were running but experiencing delays of up to 30 minutes on most routes. “Safety is our top priority,” the spokesperson said. “We are asking passengers to be patient as our drivers navigate challenging road conditions.”

Residents Urged to Stay Prepared

Local officials are reminding residents to take precautions during winter storms. The Roanoke Emergency Management Office advises residents to stock up on essentials, including food, water, and emergency supplies. In addition, they emphasize the importance of clearing sidewalks and driveways to prevent accidents.

“Shoveling snow may seem like a routine task, but it’s crucial for preventing slips and falls,” said Linda Harper, an emergency management coordinator. “Make sure to wear proper footwear and use sand or kitty litter for traction on icy surfaces.”

For those needing shelter or assistance, the city’s Office of Emergency Management has activated warming centers at several community facilities. These centers provide a safe space for vulnerable populations, including those without access to heating.

More Winter Weather Ahead?

Forecasters are keeping a close eye on another storm system expected to move through the region later this week. While the full impact remains uncertain, meteorologists warn that additional freezing rain and snow could exacerbate existing hazards.

The National Weather Service is encouraging residents to monitor updates and stay informed about changing weather conditions. Official alerts and forecasts can be accessed on the NWS Winter Weather Portal, where real-time radar and storm tracking tools are available.

Conclusion: A Community Effort

As crews work diligently to keep roads clear, officials stress that community cooperation is vital during severe weather events. Residents are urged to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, report downed trees or power lines to local authorities, and check on neighbors who may need assistance.

The City of Roanoke has set up a dedicated hotline for storm-related concerns, including road conditions and power outages. Residents can call 540-853-2000 for information or to report issues.

While the winter weather poses challenges, city officials remain optimistic about the community’s resilience. “We’ve faced storms before, and we’ll get through this one together,” said Reynolds. “With everyone doing their part, we can keep Roanoke safe.”

For additional safety tips and resources, visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management website or follow updates on the City of Roanoke’s official Twitter page.

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