VDOT News - Richmond

CHESTERFIELD, Va. – The Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT) Richmond District is closely monitoring possible impacts from the incoming tropical storm.

The storm is predicted to bring heavy rain, which could cause flooding in low-lying areas of the 14-county VDOT Richmond District. As part of the storm preparations, crews have inspected and cleaned drainage structures across state-maintained roads.

Prepared for Emergencies

VDOT is ready to respond to emergencies with crews and contractors on standby to address any roadway damages due to high winds and water.

Communication and coordination with other state agencies such as the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and Virginia State Police, are also taking place as appropriate.

Bridge Wind Speeds

Wind speeds on the Benjamin Harrison and Varina-Enon bridges are being closely monitored by VDOT throughout the weekend.

If high winds make it necessary for bridges to close for safety reasons, changeable message boards, signs and barricades will alert motorists in advance.

Safe Driving

All drivers should pay close attention to local weather reports and announcements from officials and avoid travel during the storm. Obey all road closed signs. Be alert to debris, downed trees and power lines. If a traffic signal is out, drivers are advised to treat the intersection as a four-way stop.

Additionally, residents in the vicinity of small streams and those traveling through low-lying areas should be aware that those streams can rise rapidly, overflowing their banks and covering roads. Never attempt to drive on a flooded road – two feet of flowing water can carry away most vehicles, and the road may be washed out.

Report a Road Hazard

Report a downed tree, debris, flooding, or another road hazard to VDOT's Customer Service Center 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623) or online at my.vdot.virginia.gov. 

For the latest real-time traffic information or road conditions, call 511 or visit http://www.511virginia.org. 

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