Virginia – A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for parts of central Virginia on Friday, as accumulating snow is expected to create hazardous travel conditions across the Blue Ridge region throughout the day.
Advisory Details and Affected Areas
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington, the advisory covers Nelson County and the central Virginia Blue Ridge from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST Friday. Forecasts call for 1 to 3 inches of snow, with localized totals up to 4 inches possible along the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge.
Meteorologists note that snowfall amounts will vary significantly with elevation, meaning drivers could encounter rapidly changing conditions over short distances, especially while traveling through mountain corridors.
Timing and Snowfall Progression
Snow is expected to develop during the morning hours and continue through the afternoon, gradually spreading across the advisory area. While snowfall rates are not expected to be extreme, the duration of the event combined with cold pavement temperatures could allow snow to accumulate efficiently on roadways.
Forecasters warn that conditions may deteriorate during both the Friday morning and evening commutes, increasing the likelihood of slippery travel during peak traffic periods.
Travel Impacts and Road Conditions
The primary concern with this system is road safety. Even modest snow totals can create snow-covered and icy roads, particularly on:
- Mountain routes
- Bridges and overpasses
- Untreated secondary roads
- Shaded areas that receive less sunlight
Higher elevations are expected to see heavier accumulations, while nearby valleys may receive lighter snowfall or mixed conditions. This elevation-dependent pattern can make travel especially unpredictable for motorists unfamiliar with the terrain.
Safety Guidance for Motorists
Officials urge drivers traveling through the Blue Ridge region to take extra precautions throughout the day. Recommended safety steps include:
- Slowing down and reducing speed
- Increasing following distance
- Allowing extra travel time
- Avoiding sudden braking or sharp turns
- Using headlights during snowfall
Drivers are reminded that snow-covered roads can remain slick even after snowfall rates decrease, particularly when surface temperatures remain near or below freezing.
For the latest road conditions, motorists can dial 511, Virginia’s official travel information system, which provides real-time updates on traffic, closures, and weather-related hazards.
Why the Blue Ridge Is Especially Vulnerable
The Blue Ridge Mountains often experience higher snowfall totals than surrounding areas due to elevation and orographic effects, where moist air is forced upward over terrain and cools more efficiently. This can lead to enhanced snowfall even during relatively weak winter systems.
As a result, drivers may encounter snow-packed roads at higher elevations while lower-lying areas nearby remain only wet or lightly snow-covered. These abrupt transitions can catch motorists off guard.
What to Expect After Snow Ends
Snow is expected to taper off by early evening, but forecasters caution that lingering slick spots may persist into the overnight hours, especially in elevated areas and locations that do not receive daytime melting.
Temperatures are expected to remain cold enough to prevent rapid improvement, meaning refreezing could occur on untreated roads after sunset.
Looking Ahead
While this is not expected to be a major winter storm, officials stress that minor snowfall events often cause a disproportionate number of accidents, particularly in mountainous regions. Staying informed and adjusting travel plans can significantly reduce risk.
Residents and travelers in central Virginia are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and advisories throughout Friday as conditions evolve.
If you’re traveling through the Blue Ridge region during the advisory period, share your road conditions or experiences in the comments below.
