Virginia Winter Storm Survival Guide

Whether you're new to Virginia or lived here for some time, we have some super helpful information to help you prepare and protect your family this winter!

Start by Staying Informed

Stay ahead of local weather, especially before you head out the door and get on the road. Track storms and make appropriate preparations for the worst-case scenario.

Bookmark the National Weather Service for Virginia website.

Follow the National Weather Service on social media in your area:

NWS On Twitter                                                               NWS On Facebook

• @WakefieldVA                                                        @WakefieldVA
• @NWBlacksburg                                                    @NWBlacksburg
• @NWS_BaltWash                                                   @NWS_BaltWash
• @NWSMorristown                                                  @NWSMorristown
• @NWSCharlestonWV                                            @NWSCharlestonWV

On the Road

Prepare your car for winter weather with regular maintenance including antifreeze, battery and tire checks, windshield wiper and fluid replacement. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full so you don't get stuck in an emergency and to keep the fuel line from freezing. We have more travel safety tips too!

Take your time! Virginians do not have tons of opportunities to practice driving in snow and ice.

So what's the safest way to drive in snow and ice especially if you rarely do it? Some folks say just pretend you're taking grandma to church. There's a platter of biscuits and two gallons of sweet tea in glass jars in the back seat. She's wearing a new dress and holding a crock pot full of gravy!

Virginia Department of Transportation Resources

Virginia 511 System: provides the latest traffic and road conditions by phone, website and app.

VDOT Safety Patrol: tire change assistance, fuel at nearest gas station, jump starts, phone access, and directions.

Virginia State Police: Twitter: @VSPPIO Facebook:@VirginiaStatePolice

Virginia Department of Transportation: local travel advisories on Twitter follow:

Follow VDOT's Facebook Page and join the following groups for local advisories: VDOT Fredericksburg District, VDOT Salem District, VDOT Hampton Roads District. 

And of course we are here for you!

As a Northern Neck member, you get 24/7/365 Roadside Assistance included in your auto insurance. If you break down, run out of gas, or get a flat tire, we're just a quick phone call away.

If You Get Stranded in Your Car

• Stay put, call and wait for help. Do not leave unless help is visible within 100 yards.
• Display a trouble sign to indicate you need help. Hang a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) on the radio antenna and raise the hood after snow stops falling.
• Run the engine intermittently to keep warm, about 10 minutes each hour (or 5 minutes every half hour).
• Use the heater while the engine is running. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and slightly open a rear window for ventilation.
• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.
• Do light exercises for circulation (avoid staying in one position for too long).

Travel Delays

Click the links for updated flight information.

• Richmond Airport
• Reagan International Airport
• Washington Dulles Airport
• Roanoke Blacksburg Regional Airport
• Norfolk International Airport
• Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport
• Lynchburg Regional Airport
• Charlottesville/Albemarle Airport
• Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport

Power Outage Contacts

Click on the links below to report an outage and for information from utilities in your area.

• Dominion Power  866-366-4357
• Northern Virginia (NOVEC)  888-335-0500
• Appalachian Power  800-956-4237
• Shenandoah Valley Electric (SVEC)
• Southside Electric (SEC) 866-878-5514   
• American Electric (AEP) 
• Rappahannock Electric (REC)  800.552.3904
• Community Electric (COMELEC) 757-242-6181
• FirstEnergy 888-544-4877 (Hazards only-report outage online)

Before a Winter Weather Event

• Locate a homeless shelter if needed. Be prepared for COVID-19 questions and PPE.
• Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing that will keep you warm.
• Be prepared to evacuate if you lose power or heat and know your routes and destinations. Find a local emergency shelter: @VDEM on Twitter,  https://www.facebook.com/VAemergency/
• Bring your animals inside and ensure that your horses and livestock have blankets if appropriate and unimpeded access to shelter, food, and non-frozen water.
• Buy a battery operated and hand crank weather radio.
• Build an VDEM-recommended emergency kit with extra batteries, food, water, prescriptions etc. 
• Locate copies of your insurance policy.
• Have family and emergency contact information available.
• Get extra cash. In a power outage, ATMs may not be working.
• Have a home inventory.

Protect Your Home

• Locate your home insurance documents and policy number, as well as contact information for your local agent.
• Prepare the outside of your home for cold weather.
• Learn how to protect pipes from freezing and what to do if you think you already have a frozen pipe.
• Have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Avoid using candles. If necessary, keep them at least 3 feet away from children, pets and anything flammable.
• Emergency Heating Equipment
  
  • Wood or coal-burning stove, electric or kerosene heaters are heat safe when used correctly.  
  • Stoves must be properly vented and in good working order. Dispose of ashes safely. Keep a supply of wood or coal on hand. 
  • Electric space heaters must be UL certified. Plug a heater directly into the wall and avoid using an extension cord. Unplug it when it is not in use.  Use a kerosene heater only if permitted by law in your area; check with your local fire department.
  • Use only the correct fuel for your unit. Properly ventilate the area. Refuel the unit outdoors only, and only when the unit is cool. Follow all the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Have your fireplace/wood stove inspected annually and well maintained. It should be properly vented and in good working order. Dispose of ashes safely in a metal container and wait until cool to throw away.
  • Know what an ice dam is and what to do if you have one on your roof. 

Have a Plan for Your Pets

• Have extra pet food and water on hand plus any necessary medications.
• Make sure your pets are current on their vaccinations.
• Have a current picture on your phone.
• Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with identification and have a leash on hand.
• Have properly sized pet carriers.
• Have a place to take your pet – kennels, veterinary clinics and the homes of friends and relatives are all places you can take your pet in an emergency.
• Find a pet-friendly motel: https://www.bringfido.com/lodging/state/virginia/

After a Winter Weather Event

After any severe storm, there could be damage, including downed trees on property , power outages, broken glass and more.

• Check on elderly or disabled neighbors and relatives.
• Remove snow and ice properly to prevent slips and falls around your home or business.

• Clear your neighborhood fire hydrants.

• Avoid overexertion, such as shoveling heavy snow, pushing a vehicle, or walking in deep snow. The strain from the cold and the hard labor may cause a heart attack. Sweating could lead to a chill and hypothermia.
• Inspect your home for damage and take pictures.
• Be careful walking around damaged areas in your home.
• If you have damage, contact your independent agent or our 24/7 Claims Hotline 877-968-7252.

 REMOVE ALL SNOW AND ICE FROM YOUR CAR BEFORE DRIVING, INCLUDING SENSORS AND CAMERAS!