Charlottesville, Virginia – Drivers crossing the Blue Ridge could face snow-covered mountain roads by daybreak Sunday as a winter storm threatens to drop 5 inches or more of snow, especially above 2,500 feet.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Sunday morning through late Sunday night for the Northern Virginia Blue Ridge and Central Virginia Blue Ridge. Forecasters warn that accumulating snow and gusty winds may combine to create difficult to nearly impossible travel conditions along higher elevations.
Areas along Skyline Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Route 33 near Swift Run Gap could see the heaviest snowfall. Roads at elevation often freeze first, and snow rates could quickly reduce visibility during heavier bursts. Wind gusts may exceed 30 mph at ridgetops, increasing the risk of falling tree limbs and isolated power outages.
VDOT crews typically pre-treat primary routes ahead of significant winter events, but drivers should avoid non-essential travel during the height of the storm. Residents in mountain communities should charge devices, check flashlights and have emergency supplies ready in case power flickers.
Snow is expected to begin Sunday morning and continue into the late evening hours before tapering overnight. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued as confidence in snowfall totals increases.
