CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia’s Department of Transportation (VDOT) began pre-treating area roads Wednesday and overnight ahead of the first anticipated snowfall of 2020 that’s expected to arrive Thursday afternoon.
According to VDOT, Richmond District crews began pretreating interstate routes in southeast parts of the district Wednesday afternoon. Interstate routes south and east of Richmond will be treated with a saltwater brine solution to prevent ice from bonding with the pavement.
VDOT reminds drivers that hazardous driving conditions are still a possibility with road treatment.
VDOT spokesman Sara Owens says the team is working to address slick spots as necessary and will adjust operations as the forecast evolves.
“If it gets real bad, my best advice — and a lot of people don’t take it — just stay at home,” Owens said. “Don’t come out just to see how the roads are, because that’s normally what gets people in trouble.”

8News Chief Meteorologist John Bernier says Virginians in the southern part of the state should expect snow to develop late Thursday afternoon into the evening.
Stay with 8News for the latest weather forecast and any reported school closings and delays.
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