HISTORIC TRIANGLE — Another round of snow has the potential to impact the region Wednesday and Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.
According to a hazardous weather outlook from the National Weather Service in Wakefield, the system will move into the area late Wednesday morning with the bulk of snow falling in the afternoon hours. Current forecasts indicate the snow will stop in the early morning hours of Thursday.
The City of Williamsburg, James City County, and York County are currently under a Winter Storm Warning. The warning is in effect from 6 a.m Wednesday to 6 a.m. Thursday.
The track of the storm remains uncertain, but snowfall amounts are predicted to be between 5-10 inches. Icing will also be a factor as temperatures dip into the teens following the storm.
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.
State of Emergency vs. Travel Ban
Often with inclement weather, governors use their power to execute a state of emergency order. A common question arises around the possibility of driving.
A state of emergency is a government declaration that states that because of a crisis, normal workings of political and social life are suspended. During a state of emergency declaration, driving is allowed.
A travel ban can be ultimately added on during a state of emergency and prohibits travel. Usually travel bans prohibit travel unless absolutely necessary. During inclement weather, travel bans are often enacted as a way to keep roads clear and free for use by emergency personnel.
A state of emergency covers a broad response to a crisis, while a travel ban is a specific measure that may occur during or outside of a declared emergency.
Prior to the Feb. 19 storm, Gov. Glenn Youngkin has preemptively declared a state of emergency.
Ice Safety
In light of recent ice rescues, area residents are urged to use caution when dealing with frozen retention ponds and lakes.
According to the National Weather Service, ice thickness can vary across bodies of water. While some locations may be safe, ice may be unstable just a few feet away. The ice quality in many areas is likely only poor to fair. Clear ice is usually more solid than white or grey opaque or snow ice.
“You have more than just the top layer of water on it. It might look like it’s OK to walk across and even by the edges, it might feel like it’s OK to walk across but 10 to one, the middle is not going to be OK to support you around here,” Sara Ruch, James City County Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, said.
If you are planning on venturing onto the ice, always alert someone as to where you are going. Know how to use ice picks and rope in case you fall through. Before venturing onto the ice, look for large cracks and depressions in the ice and avoid them.
“Just remember that when you, if you for some reason, want to still go out on the ice, please think about the others that will have to come out there and get you when you do fall through the ice. That is putting our police or fire whoever gets out there first in jeopardy as well,” Ruch said.
Virginia State Police Urge Safety
As the Virginia State Police prepares for snow and icy precipitation across the commonwealth, it is encouraging motorists to be prepared and plan ahead for hazardous road conditions. The winter weather will then be followed by rain, leading to potential flooding concerns, it cautioned.
Virginia State Police will be adjusting manpower as necessary to be able to respond to the conditions, it added.
If travel during the storm is 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 ensuring 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.