High winds are causing power outages, travel issues and property damage across Virginia.
Governor Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency Friday afternoon to address and mitigate the effects of the severe weather.
There is widespread damage in Virginia caused by wind and gusts from 50 to 70 mph, according to a Virginia Department of Emergency Management news release.
The VDEM is working with the Virginia Department of Transportation, Virginia State Police, local emergency responders and Virginia’s power companies to remedy the damage.
Additional damage is expected, as the wind will continue through Saturday.
By noon Friday, over 410,000 Virginians had lost power, several downed power lines caused fires in central and northwest Virginia, and the Hampton Roads bridge tunnels reported closures.
The Virginia Department of Transportation is also warning travelers of downed trees, signs and debris in roadways.
Issues with traffic signals have also been reported, according to a VDOT news release.
Crews are working to clear the trees and debris.
Drivers who come to an intersection with an inoperable signal should treat the situation as a four-way stop.
VDOT also requests drivers move over for emergency responders, VDOT crews and utility crews.
To find out about road conditions and closures, visit www.511virginia.org, download the free mobile 511 app or call 511.
Here are some tips from the VDEM:
Disaster Supply Kits
- Prepare a disaster supply kit for major disasters and long-term power outages. To find out what goes into an emergency kit, visit https://www.vaemergency.gov/prepare-recover/emergency-supply-kit/
Power Outages
- Never touch a downed power line. If you see lines down, call 911 or contact your local power company.
- Beware of any lines that may have fallen or come into contact with trees, debris, or water. Stay at least 30 feet away and make sure your family, pets, and neighbors also avoid the downed wire.
- To report power outages for Dominion Energy, log into DominionEnergy.com and check their outage map for updates. Stay clear of downed lines and call to report them: 866-366-4357.
Generator Safety
- Never use a generator indoors, including in homes, garages, basements, crawl spaces and other enclosed or partially-enclosed areas, even with ventilation. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide in the home.
- Put the generator outdoors on a dry surface, away from doors, windows, vents and air-conditioning equipment that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
- Follow instructions that come with the generator.
