The National Weather Service in Blacksburg earlier today issued a winter storm warning for Danville and the surrounding area that will take effect at 9 p.m. tonight and continue to noon Sunday.
Freezing rain and freezing drizzle will fall overnight and during much of the day on Saturday. Significant icing is expected. Total ice accumulation of up to one-fourth to one-half of an inch is possible.
These amounts of ice accumulations on trees and power lines could result in widespread downed trees and power lines and consequently widespread power outages. Bridges and overpasses also will be affected, with some lesser accumulations on road and highway surfaces.
Public Works crews will report to work overnight and remain on duty on Saturday to treat bridges and overpasses. Utilities crews will be on standby.
The area could receive additional freezing rain and freezing drizzle on Saturday evening and Sunday morning, but with lesser icing.
The winter storm will affect areas east of the Blue Ridge of Virginia and northern North Carolina. Further west, mainly west of the Blue Ridge, lesser amounts of ice and some sleet are expected.
The Danville Winter Farmers’ Market has been cancelled for this Saturday due to the weather forecast.
