HISTORIC TRIANGLE — Another round of snow has the potential to impact the region this weekend according to the National Weather Service.
Winter Storm Cora is currently predicted to impact the area on Friday night into Saturday morning. According to a hazardous weather outlook, the system will move into the area around 7 p.m. Friday evening with 2-4 inches of snow expected with the possibility for icing. Conditions are expected to last through Saturday afternoon. A winter storm warning is in effect for Williamsburg, James City County, and York County.
Temperatures will remain in the mid-30s throughout the weekend.
Watch vs. Warning?
Watches and warnings are often created when hazardous conditions are predicted. However, watches and warnings are often confused with one another so what do they mean?
According to Weather.gov, a watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their plans in motion can do so.
A watch also means that hazardous weather is possible. People should have a plan of action in case a storm threatens and they should listen for later information and possible warnings especially when planning travel or outdoor activities.
When a warning is issued, a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent or likely. A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the path of the storm need to take protective action.
Virginia State Police Urge Safety
As the Virginia State Police prepares for a weekend of mixed precipitation across most the Tidewater and Hampton Roads region, it was encouraging motorists to be prepared and plan ahead for hazardous road conditions.
Virginia State Police will have all available troopers and supervisors working in advance of and for the duration of the storm, it said. State police were advising motorists to postpone travel plans and avoid driving until weather conditions improve.
If travel during the storm in necessary, state police remind motorists to do the following:
- Use headlights. Increasing your visibility.
- Slow your speed. Drive for existing weather conditions.
- Don’t tailgate. Allow a safe stopping distance on slick road surfaces.
- Buckle Up. Arrive alive!
- Put the phone down. Drive distraction free.
- Check Your Vehicle. Ensure your vehicle is in good working order for the conditions. Fill up the tank in advance. Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid, tire tread, battery life, etc.
- Don’t leave home without an emergency kit, to include; a window scraper, blanket, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, cell phone charger and a flashlight.
State police remind motorists to call 911 or #77 on a cellular phone only in emergencies, as it is essential to keep emergency dispatch lines open for those in serious need of police, fire or medical response.
Pet Safety
Virginia law prohibits leaving dogs chained or tethered outside when the temperature is 32 degrees or below. Dogs who are kept permanently chained and penned outside or outdoor cats can often go without adequate food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. Animals who are left outdoors in the cold can suffer from frostbite and exposure, and dogs who are kept tethered can become tangled and die when they’re unable to reach food, water, or shelter.
When putting down ice melt, be conscious of buying pet safe brands. Dogs often lick their paws, and it’s easier to ingest things, like ice and snow melt, that they’ve stepped on. Using a pet-safe ice and snow melt can be just as effective, and help keep your dog safe in the event that they do trail some inside.
Good Samaritans who see companion animals kept chained or penned outside 24/7 or without adequate shelter from the elements should note the animals’ exact location and alert local law-enforcement authorities immediately.
Tips
According to officials, the time to prepare is now. Preparations for houses should include checking carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms, checking for proper insulation including weather stripping on windows and doors, and ensure additional heating sources in case of power outages.
For those traveling, allow for additional time to arrive at your destination, ensure gas tanks are full, and pay attention to flight delays and cancellations. Make sure vehicles are topped off with antifreeze and wintertime windshield wiper fluid.
Before traveling, motorists can check roadway conditions by using VDOT’s free 511 mobile app, which offers information about road conditions, traffic, incidents, construction and congestion as well as access to traffic cameras, weather and more. Information is also available at 511.vdot.virginia.gov or by calling 511 while in Virginia.
For questions or to report hazardous road conditions, contact VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov
For the latest weather updates, follow the National Weather Service, York County Office of Emergency Management, James City County Office of Emergency Management, and the City of Williamsburg Office of Emergency Management.
