RICHMOND — Virginia’s Hampton Roads region took the brunt of winter storm Kingston as heavy snowfall blanketed the area Wednesday night. Norfolk International Airport recorded 10 inches, while Macons Corner in Virginia Beach saw a storm-high 13 inches, according to the National Weather Service.
While forecasts had called for at least two inches across Hampton Roads and Central Virginia, some areas were hit harder than expected. The rest of the commonwealth received about an inch of snow following the storm’s peak.
As of noon Thursday, Virginia State Police reported 568 crashes statewide, with 49 resulting in injuries since early Wednesday morning. However, officials confirmed no fatalities tied to the storm.
Tim Kelley, a spokesman for VDOT’s Hampton Roads District, said as of midday Thursday, interstates in the areas are in “clear to minor condition” with some snow and slush still visible.
“However, with snow removal operations still taking place on the shoulders and ramps, motorists should use extreme caution while traveling and err on the side of safety while making travel decisions,” Kelly said in a statement to The Mercury.
Although Kelley could not provide an exact timetable on snow removal, he did say it’s the district’s goal to “restore the roadways to normal condition as soon as possible with safety as a top priority in our operations.”
Gov. Glenn Youngkin credited Virginians for staying off the roads, noting at a Wednesday press briefing that decreased traffic had been “noticeable,” though he did not provide specific numbers. However, he stressed that traveling speeds remain a concern for law enforcement.
Youngkin also warned that strong winds on Thursday could lead to additional hazards, including power outages. So far, disruptions have been minimal, but state agencies remain on high alert.
“We’re asking everybody to continue to keep your head about you and use really good judgment when you’re getting out,” Youngkin said.
The Virginia Department of Transportation and Virginia State Police continue to urge drivers to stay home until conditions improve. Crews are actively treating and plowing roads, prioritizing interstates, primary roads (Routes 1–599), and key secondary roads (Routes 600 and up) that connect to emergency services and high-traffic areas.
For those who must travel, state officials warn that low temperatures could create icy surfaces, requiring extreme caution on roadways and sidewalks.
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