With a major snowstorm expected to impact the region starting Sunday, January 5, 2024, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) updated the Stafford County Board of Supervisors on its winter storm preparations late last month.
Andrew Thorpe, Assistant Resident Engineer, presented an overview of VDOT's snow removal strategies during a recent meeting, emphasizing readiness across Stafford and neighboring counties.
The upcoming storm, fueled by a low-pressure system moving west to east, is forecast to bring significant wintry precipitation to the area. Snow is likely across most of the region, with sleet and freezing rain expected in southern areas late Sunday.
The system will exit the region by late Monday or early Tuesday.
Thorpe outlined VDOT's preparations, which include the allocation of $220 million statewide for snow removal and deployment of over 900 pieces of snow removal equipment across Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Caroline counties. Stafford County alone will see more than 260 hired snow removal units, alongside VDOT-owned equipment. Crews have stockpiled 29,000 tons of salt and sand and 58,000 gallons of salt brine for pre-treatment. Preparations began in July with contractor coordination and continued with a recent dry run to finalize plans. VDOT's tiered approach prioritizes clearing Interstate 95, primary roads, and access to public safety facilities before moving to high-volume secondary roads and subdivisions. During severe storms, plows focus on making roads passable for emergency vehicles, with follow-up efforts to fully clear roadways as conditions improve. Thorpe emphasized the importance of technology, including GPS tracking on equipment, which allows for real-time monitoring of plowing progress. Residents can access live updates on v.plows.org and view road conditions through the 511 website and app. He also encouraged drivers to stay off the roads during severe weather, ensure their vehicles are winter-ready, and use proper shoveling techniques to minimize re-blocking driveways after plows pass. The Board of Supervisors thanked VDOT for its proactive planning and dedication to keeping roads safe. Residents with concerns or inquiries can contact VDOT’s 24/7 customer service center at 1-800-4-ROAD.An elevated winter storm threat is expected late Sun.-Mon. There is increasing confidence in regards to potential travel impacts & closures, especially for the Monday commute. More detailed snow & ice totals will be provided within the next 24 hrs at https://t.co/ZOlvEShgSf. pic.twitter.com/g1dU0K8xvh
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) January 2, 2025
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Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
