I wanted to give you this emergency update based on my conference call with Governor McDonnell on the state of emergency in Virginia.  He noted that the effects of the storm will be with us for days and even weeks.  It is vitally important to stay off the roads for the next couple of days for safety reasons.  

Secretary of Transportation:  They are still working on Interstates.  Most are passable but dangerous.  DO NOT drive.  They have deployed 2000 pieces of equipment in Northern Virginia and are reallocating from other areas of the state.  Because of the heavy snow, they have to truck snow off the roadways.  Because of the extraordinary snowstorm, it will most likely take them several days to get to the secondary roadways. (In an email I just received from VDOT, it will be Monday before they can make inroads to the subdivisions, and if your street hasn't seen a plow/sander by Wednesday, you are urged to dial 703-383-VDOT)

Virginia Department Emergency Management:  Be prepared to lose power.  Currently there are 88,000 without power and over the next 24 hours there will be an increase in power outages.  You can visit their website at www.vdem.state.va.us.  Note these important numbers in case you lose power:  VA Power 1-888-667-3000.  For information on emergency shelters, you can dial 211, or Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management 703-324-2362, or Loudoun County Office of Emergency Management 703-777-0333.

Secretary of Health and Human Resources:  This is called a 'heart attack snow' so take it easy.  Also be concerned about hypothermia from the cold and carbon monoxide from generators.

National Guard:  500 National Guard personnel have been deployed.

State Police:  Major accidents have been reported on Route 81 and Route 66.  4 troopers have been injured while stopped on the side of the road helping motorists.  Over 1300 accidents throughout the Commonwealth

Also, I wanted to remind you to clear around fire hydrants and please check on neighbors, especially the elderly.  Keep warm and stay safe.