Winter storm slams Virginia: Two dead in 475 crashes statewide

Richmond, VA – A powerful winter storm continues to blanket much of Virginia on Monday, prompting officials to urge drivers to stay off the roads as hazardous conditions persist and emergency crews struggle to keep up with a surge in crashes.

As of 11 a.m. Monday, Virginia State Police reported responding to 475 crashes across the Commonwealth since the onset of the storm, including 36 with injuries and two fatalities. One deadly crash occurred Saturday evening in Fairfax County but was not weather-related, while a second, storm-linked fatal crash took place Sunday evening in Pittsylvania County.

VDOT officials said plow crews are still working to clear primary routes and are beginning to reach secondary and subdivision roads. Authorities warned that ongoing snowfall and icy conditions ...