RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - It was a snowy morning commute for drivers into Richmond after a clipper storm system dumped around one inch snow on the metro area. Some drivers were left wondering why certain roads seemed to accumulate more than others.
With reports of snow build up on Interstate 195 and 295, we asked the Virginia Department of Transportation how it treated the road.
VDOT spokeswoman Dawn Eischen said crews pretreated bridges and overpasses on the interstates and major roads prior to the snowfall. Crews started with the bridges and overpasses because those tend to freeze over more quickly than roads.
The buildup on those roadway is typically treated with salt once the snow falls, and snow plows don't come out until at least 1 inch of accumulation is on the road, according to Eischen.
Eischen said pretreating roads can give drivers a false sense of security. In actuality, salting the roads prevents the snow from sticking to roadways, which makes it easier for crews to remove the snow.
With the possibility of more snow in the forecast for Friday, Eischen said crews will focus more on major roadways throughout the day, especially in areas south of Richmond.
VDOT also urged drivers to take their time driving through winter weather.
