Richmond, VA – As winter weather returns to the Commonwealth later this month, transportation and weather officials are warning drivers in Richmond, Norfolk, and Roanoke to be alert for icy bridges and overpasses that are freezing ahead of main roads.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), bridges freeze first because they’re exposed to cold air on all sides. This airflow cools bridge surfaces faster than standard roadways, which retain some heat from the ground. “That temperature gap can cause ice to form even when it appears only damp,” forecasters explained Friday.
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has begun pre-treating bridges and elevated spans along I-64, I-81, and I-95, applying brine solution and salt to limit black ice formation. Crews are expected to remain active overnight as another band of light snow and freezing drizzle moves across the state.
Officials advise motorists to slow down before bridges, maintain a steady speed across icy patches, and avoid hard braking or sharp steering. Black ice — a thin, nearly invisible layer of frozen moisture — remains one of the top causes of winter accidents across Virginia highways.
Drivers can check real-time conditions and alerts at 511Virginia.org or follow @VaDOT on social media for regional updates.
