Harrisonburg, Virginia – Drivers along the Interstate 81 corridor in the Shenandoah Valley could encounter slick roads within hours Thursday morning as rain changes to snow and brief heavy bursts move through the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, snow began developing between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. across parts of western Virginia, spreading toward Harrisonburg, Luray and Staunton through the morning. A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Thursday for portions of the central Shenandoah Valley.
Forecasters say several hours of steady snow could lead to 1 to 3 inches of accumulation along the Blue Ridge and nearby valley communities, with locally heavier bursts possible late morning.
The snow could create travel issues along Interstate 81, U.S. Route 33 and U.S. Route 340, where reduced visibility and slushy pavement may slow traffic during the late morning hours. Areas closer to Washington, Baltimore and Fredericksburg are expected to see mostly rain or a brief mix with little accumulation.
Temperatures hovering near freezing may allow snow to accumulate on grassy surfaces first, though heavier bands could briefly coat roadways.
Conditions should gradually improve later Thursday afternoon as precipitation tapers off and temperatures climb above freezing. Additional travel advisories may be issued if heavier snow bands develop during the late morning period.
