Roanoke, VA – A powerful winter storm continues to bring freezing rain across Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia, creating hazardous conditions for travel and infrastructure. Ice accumulations up to three-tenths of an inch are expected through Wednesday afternoon, leading to widespread power outages and dangerous road conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, VA, the Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 4 p.m. Wednesday for areas including Roanoke, Blacksburg, and Pulaski. A separate warning for Bedford, Lynchburg, and Danville extends until noon Wednesday. Officials caution that ice-covered roads could make travel nearly impossible, with some power outages potentially lasting multiple days.
Residents are urged to delay travel if possible and prepare for potential power disruptions by stocking up on essential supplies. If driving is unavoidable, motorists should exercise extreme caution, keep an emergency kit in their vehicle, and check road conditions via 511.
Emergency crews are on standby, but the combination of ice and wind could lead to fallen trees and power lines. The storm’s impact will continue through the morning commute, with improving conditions expected by late Wednesday.
