Virginia National Guard troops ready for winter weather response across Virginia
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Troops with the Virginia National Guard are preparing for winter weather response as a winter storm is set to bring several inches of snow, freezing rain and dangerous ice accumulations across Virginia this weekend.
Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) previously declared a state of emergency across Virginia on Jan. 22, allowing for the activation of additional resources that can be used to support the commonwealth through the storm.
The National Guard said on Jan. 24 that its troops with about 300 active-duty personnel have been staged at facilities across the commonwealth to support the response to the winter weather. This includes response teams, command and control, administrative and logistic resources and other support elements.
The Guard's response crews will work to coordinate with regional emergency managers in their staging locations beginning Saturday, officials said.
Winter storm warning issued for several Central Virginia areas
“While Virginia’s localities are equipped to respond to winter weather, the Virginia National Guard is ready to provide additional capabilities should they become necessary,” said Brig. Gen. Todd H. Hubbard, director of the Joint Staff. “On short notice, our personnel safely moved to their staging locations and are ready to assist when conditions deteriorate. I thank the Soldiers, Airmen and Virginia Defense Force volunteers who are ready to help their fellow Virginians, and I thank their families and employers for everything they do to make sure our personnel can conduct the mission.”
(Photos: Virginia National Guard Public Affairs)
(Photos: Virginia National Guard Public Affairs)
(Photos: Virginia National Guard Public Affairs)
(Photos: Virginia National Guard Public Affairs)
(Photos: Virginia National Guard Public Affairs)
(Photos: Virginia National Guard Public Affairs)
(Photos: Virginia National Guard Public Affairs)
Members of the Virginia Defense Force are also supporting response operations, officials said.
Troops with the National Guard are capable of reducing debris to help clear roads and power line routes. They're also equipped to move commodities, per officials.
Chesterfield residents urged to shelter in place for several days, officials provide safety tips
The Guard also has heavy-duty tactical trucks that can travel through deep snow and Black Hawk helicopters on standby.
Localities looking for the Guard's support can make their requests to the Virginia Emergency Support Team. The agency will determine the organization that can best provide the requested assistance and coordinate regional and statewide responses.
As this storm is set to arrive Saturday evening, here are a few links that could help you get ready for this storm:
- Roadway conditions and driving-related tips
- Is it safe to drive this weekend? AAA says to stay home if you can
- How to prepare your car as winter storm heads to Central Virginia this weekend
- LIST: Items to include in your car’s emergency kit for winter weather
- Driving safety tips to follow if travel is absolutely necessary during Virginia’s winter storm
- Home and health-related tips
- Power outage-related tips
Our StormTracker8 team continues to monitor this storm. On Saturday and Sunday, you can tune into our ongoing winter weather coverage using our free WRIC+ app. You can also check out our StormTracker8 24/7 weather livestream here.
For the most up-to-date weather alerts, click here or visit our StormTracker8 weather page.
