Governor McDonnell Declares State of Emergency for Western and Southwestern Virginia
- Localized Blizzard Conditions Impacting Communities from Tazewell County to Highland County

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

February 27, 2010

Office of the Governor
Contact: Stacey Johnson
Phone: (804) 225-4260
E-mail: Stacey.Johnson@Governor.Virginia.Gov

Virginia Department of Emergency Management
Contact: Bob Spieldenner
Phone: (804) 879-6510
Bob.Spieldenner@vdem.virginia.gov

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell Friday evening declared a state of emergency for communities in western and southwestern parts of Virginia. A severe winter storm that began Thursday is causing blizzard-like conditions, including drifting snow, low visibility and extremely low temperatures. The storm is expected to continue through Sunday. Impacted localities include Bland, Grayson, Smyth and Tazewell Counties in Southwestern Virginia to Highland County in the Alleghany Highlands.

"I have directed state agencies including the Virginia National Guard to be ready to respond to any local government's request for assistance," said Gov. McDonnell. "These blizzard conditions make travel extremely hazardous, and everyone is urged to avoid travel unless they absolutely must."

The combination of wind and saturated ground could cause power outages, leaving people without heat during very cold weather. Those experiencing heavy snow and high winds should be prepared to lose power and know how to get help from local emergency responders if necessary.

Virginians in the affected areas can check road conditions before they leave home by calling 511 or logging in to 511Virginia.org. 9-1-1 should only be used in case of a life-threatening emergency.

More information about winter weather preparedness is available at http://www.vaemergency.com/threats/winter/index.cfm

Detailed generator and emergency heat safety tips, as well as other information about how Virginians can stay safe during an emergency, is available at www.ReadyVirginia.gov and in Spanish at www.ListoVirginia.gov. ###