Virginia National Guard staged, ready for severe weather response

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia National Guard (VNG) is staged and ready at several locations across the Commonwealth for the incoming severe winter weather. According to a release, around 70 soldiers were staged as of Sunday, Jan. 5 along Interstate 95, on Route 29 corridors and throughout Southwest Virginia as severe winter weather moves in and is expected to have significant impacts. Virginia National Guard troopers prepare (Courtesy of the Virginia National Guard)Virginia National Guard troopers prepare (Courtesy of the Virginia National Guard) Troopers are ready to perform missions and will meet up with local emergency managers to provide assistance as it is needed, according to the agency. Soldiers are trained and organized in teams utilizing chainsaws to reduce debris as well as clear roads and power line routes. They will also have tactical trucks that are able to withstand driving through deep snow. Additionally, 20 soldiers and individuals with the Virginia Defense Force are currently available to supply logistics, administrative support and maintenance to the response teams. Virginia National Guard troopers prepare (Courtesy of the Virginia National Guard)Virginia National Guard troopers prepare (Courtesy of the Virginia National Guard)Virginia National Guard troopers prepare (Courtesy of the Virginia National Guard) For localities that are seeking VNG support, they can make requests to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, as they determine which organization will be best suited to provide assistance.