As the Commonwealth of Virginia prepares for an imminent winter storm, Governor Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency to enhance safety measures against severe weather conditions expected from February 10th to February 14th. Continuous snowfall and the potential for ice are forecasted to impact various areas of the state, prompting local authorities to take necessary precautions.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for Northern Virginia as well as several other regions including the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Meteorologists predict that parts of the state could receive up to 10 inches of snow, leading to hazardous travel conditions and possible power outages due to ice accumulation. Meteorologist Daniel G. Johnson stated, “We want everyone to be prepared and to stay off the roads if possible during the peak of the storm. This could be one of the worst winter storms we have seen this season.”
In light of these predictions, Governor Youngkin urged residents to prepare their emergency kits and have a plan in place. “We are taking proactive measures to ensure that Virginia is ready for the worst this winter can throw at us,” he explained in a press briefing. The state emergency management agency is coordinating with local municipalities to address possible disruptions caused by the storm.
The Virginia Department of Transportation has announced it will have crews ready to treat roads and clear snow, emphasizing the importance of travel safety. Additionally, schools across the region are evaluating their schedules as the storm approaches, with potential closures or remote learning implementations.
Residents are advised to keep up with local news updates and weather alerts as the situation evolves. Overall, the winter storm poses a significant risk to several communities in Virginia, marking a critical time for safety and preparedness.
