© 2024 WMRA and WEMC
WMRA : More News, Less Noise WEMC: The Valley's Home for Classical Music
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

McAuliffe Declares State of Emergency for Winter Storm

On Thursday morning, Gov. Terry McAuliffe declared a state of emergency for Virginia, in anticipation of this weekend's expected winter storm.  Around 2 feet of snow may accumulate between Friday afternoon and Saturday night.The declaration authorizes state agencies to move resources quickly to clear roads and respond to emergencies.  Virginia State Police are urging residents to stay off the roads this weekend to avoid hazardous driving conditions, and to allow state crews to clear the roads.

The National Weather Service says that high winds, and wind gusts of more than 40 mph on Friday night and Saturday, along with heavy snowfall, could cause power outages.  Residents should remember to check on elderly or shut-in neighbors over the weekend, and to bring pets inside.  You should also be prepared to be stuck at home for 72 hours, in case roads are blocked or electrical power is interrupted.  (The Red Cross provides this list of recommended supplies.)

For the WMRA region as of Thursday afternoon (Jan. 21), the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Friday and Saturday.

Find more information on emergency preparedness here.

Bob Leweke is WMRA's News Director and Morning Edition host.