Virginia Prepared for Severe Weather! Staying Connected: District Update #12
As Virginians prepare for this year’s Christmas celebration, we are reminded of two certainties in the Commonwealth: First, that the 2012 General Assembly session is bearing down on us in January, and second, that we are on the threshold of severe winter weather.
Based on the lessons of the last two years, VDOT has been preparing for the winter of 2012 since July, has stockpiled large quantities of supplies, has a total of 9000+ state and hired pieces of snow removal equipment, and has a statewide snow budget of $126 million ($20 million more than last year). Of that, a full 35% of snow removal equipment is stationed in NOVA, and we have received 44% of the statewide budget for snow ops.
VDOT’s goal is to have all roads passable within 48 hours after the end of any storm. Crews begin by clearing interstates, primary roads, and major secondary roads that connect localities, fire stations, employment hubs, military bases, schools, hospitals, and other vital public facilities. VDOT will treat secondary roads and subdivision streets, but will focus early efforts on roads that carry the most traffic.
Here are some key tips as the weather bears down on us:
- Don’t travel during winter storms unless absolutely necessary.
- Stay indoors—70% of deaths occur in automobiles in snow/ice conditions.
- Stay at the office late or leave early, to avoid travel during storms.
- Keep an emergency supply kit in your office and car.
- Monitor official sources of weather information and road advisories.
- Comply with official advisories to stay off the roads.
- Sign up for text alerts from government agencies.
- Call 1-800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) to report hazards or ask questions.
- Click on http://www.511virginia.org/twitter.aspx?r=1 to subscribe to alerts.
- Follow www.twitter.com/VaDOT for news and information.
- Like www.facebook.com/virginiadot for the latest VDOT news.
- Watch www.youtube.com/vdotweb for videos on weather topics.
Before, during, and after we go to Richmond for the 2012 legislative session of the General Assembly (January 11-March 10), we’ll monitor the weather situation and will transmit up-to-date information to augment the information sources you may be watching. We are in constant contact with VDOT and VDEM (Virginia Department of Emergency Management) and will pass the latest info to you.
If you encounter a weather-related or any other problem, call us at our legislative district office at 571-264-9983 (before January 11) or our Richmond office at 804-698-1051 (between January 11 and March 10). You can contact my legislative assistant, Ryan M. Galloway, directly at RGalloway@house.virginia.gov. You can also reach me directly at DelRAnderson@house.virginia.gov. No matter how you reach out to us, we’ll do our best to respond without delay. And if you have an urgent need before we leave for Richmond, please call my Woodbridge home at 703-730-1380. We are here for you, 24/7.
As we enter this most blessed of seasons, Ruth, I, and our family wish you a very Merry Christmas, a happy holiday, and a great year in 2012. Thank you for the privilege of representing the 51st House District at home and in Richmond. We have much to be thankful for this season—after all, we are Virginians and Americans!
Warmest holiday regards,
RICHARD L. ANDERSON
Delegate, 51st House District
Virginia General Assembly
PS: Don’t hesitate to call us anytime we can help. Also, please forward this email to friends and family so that they can sign up at www.Rich4Delegate.com for weather alerts and other advisories!
