Hampton Roads Faces Major Winter Storm with Up to 10 Inches of Snow

NORFOLK, Va. — Hampton Roads is bracing for a significant winter storm, with forecasts predicting 6 to 10 inches of snow to hit the region beginning Wednesday morning. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, stating that the state remains under a lingering emergency order following previous severe weather, urged residents to remain indoors if possible.

“If you are not where you want to be by midnight tonight, don’t go,” Youngkin advised during a Tuesday press conference. “Stay home.” The warning comes as Virginia faces challenging conditions due to this upcoming winter storm, the seriousness of which was amplified by the governor’s declaration.

The snowfall is expected to be heaviest along the Virginia-North Carolina border, where total accumulations could reach 10 inches. Additionally, mixed precipitation may impact areas near the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

To help manage the situation, the 13News Now Weather Impact Team has issued Weather Impact Alerts, valid for Wednesday and Thursday. The National Weather Service has also announced a Winter Storm Warning from Wednesday morning until Thursday afternoon, triggered by the expectation of at least 3 inches of snow within 12 hours.

As the storm looms, schools, military installations, and government offices across the area are announcing closures, with many students expected to stay home through the storm. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has ramped up resource deployment by 40% in the affected areas, increasing the number of snowplows and trucks ready to respond.

Youngkin mentioned that additional resources from the National Guard are on the way to assist with transportation and debris removal, particularly on the Eastern Shore. Local officials anticipate widespread travel disruptions, advising that roadways may remain unplowed until Thursday afternoon due to continuous snowfall.

“Road treatment is underway, and residents are asked to drive slowly,” Youngkin said, acknowledging the need for safety as conditions worsen.

Local emergency management officials echoed these sentiments, warning against unnecessary travel. Virginia Beach Deputy Coordinator Renee McKinnon emphasized the danger of local parks, stating, “It’s just not safe. There is no stoppage, no safety barriers, nothing to prevent people from sliding into either the parking lot or the freeway.”

Business owners have reported a surge in demand for snow-related supplies. Alex Littlehales, a customer at Taylor’s Do-It Center, noted that items like salt are flying off the shelves, with limited availability. “I was going to get the third one, but the guy before me needed one, so I let him have it,” said Jerome Wolfe, a local resident.

As snowfall begins, officials are working closely with community leaders to stay ahead of the storm’s impact and ensure that residents are safe and prepared. This includes determining necessary road safety measures and promoting public awareness about the impacts of the predicted weather.

As the area prepares for uncertain and hazardous conditions, residents are reminded to stay informed and heed any further announcements from local authorities.