News Summary
As the Tri-Cities region faces a major snowstorm, Bristol, TN and Bristol, VA are gearing up for winter weather. Both cities are implementing proactive measures to ensure road safety, including road pre-treatment in TN and equipment checks in VA. Crews are ready to work in 12-hour shifts to keep essential traffic routes clear, while officials advise residents to stay informed and take safety precautions during the storm.
Bristol, TN and VA Gear Up for Winter Weather
As the Tri-Cities region braces for a significant snowstorm, both Bristol, Tennessee and Bristol, Virginia are taking proactive steps to ensure safety for their residents. With predictions of snow on the way, street crews are preparing to tackle the impending winter weather head-on.
Road Pre-Treatment Begins in Bristol, TN
Starting at midnight, city crews in Bristol, Tennessee, will launch their pre-treatment plan to get the roads ready. They’re gearing up for what could be a challenging situation, and these preparation steps are crucial for keeping the streets safe. With snow crews working around the clock in 12-hour shifts, they will focus on monitoring weather conditions closely and applying salt to the roads before the snow arrives.
According to information from the city, the plan is straightforward. Crews will scrape the main roads first to keep the major thoroughfares clear, before turning their attention to the secondary streets once the snow starts to fall. Every little bit helps when it comes to maintaining safe travel conditions for everyone in town.
Bristol, VA Readies for Snow Removal
Meanwhile, just across the state line in Bristol, Virginia, the preparations are also in full swing. Crews are busy inspecting their equipment and making sure that they have enough salt and materials on hand to manage the snowfall. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is shifting its focus from flood relief efforts to snow removal, a necessary adjustment as some areas in Virginia are still battling lingering flooding issues.
Roads are a priority, with several still not fully accessible due to high water levels. Starting late on Tuesday, VDOT crews in the Bristol district will embark on their snow removal routes, with many workers beginning their shifts around 11 PM. It’s all hands on deck as they prepare to clear the roads during and after the snowfall.
Priority Roads for Snow Clearing
The snow removal strategy in Virginia emphasizes the importance of interstates and primary highways. Crews will be focusing on critical roads like Route 23, Route 58, and Route 19 first, making sure that essential travel routes remain open. Only after clearing these main arteries will they shift to tackling the secondary highways, ensuring that all major routes are safe for travel.
In Tennessee, the roads will be treated with brine ahead of the storm to help slow down snow accumulation. It’s a smart move as snowfall can make driving treacherous, and every bit of preparation counts. On Wednesday, crews in both Bristol locations will continue working in 12-hour shifts to keep the roads as clear and safe as possible.
Safety Tips for Residents
Creating a car kit with essentials like blankets, snacks, and water can make a big difference in emergencies. And it’s always best to allow extra travel time during snowy conditions and to consider postponing any unnecessary trips during peak snowfall when the roads can be at their worst.
With predictions of below-normal temperatures and the possibility of dangerously cold wind chills in the area, staying warm is just as important as staying safe on the roads. It’s clear that both Bristols are committed to keeping their communities safe during this winter weather. So, hunker down, stay informed, and prepare for the snowfall ahead!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Winter Weather Warnings Sweep Across East Tennessee
Historic Flooding Ravages Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia
Freezing Conditions Prompt Johnson City Salvation Army to Open Shelter
Brace For the Chill: Polar Vortex Hits the U.S.
Severe Weather Hits Eastern U.S. with Floods and Snow
Severe Storms and Flooding Impact Southeastern U.S.
Winter Storm Warning Issued for North Carolina
Severe Storms Cause Destructive Flooding Across Southeast U.S.
Southern California Braces for Severe Storms and Mudslide Threats
Science Hill High School Seniors Earn Recognition
Additional Resources
- WJHL News: Pre-Treating Roads in Bristol
- Wikipedia: Weather
- Knox News: Winter Storm in East Tennessee
- Google Search: Bristol Snow Forecast
- WJHL Weather: Winter Storm Impact
- Google Scholar: Snow Storm Preparation
- WCYB: Bristol Crews Tackle Winter Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm Preparation
- Blue Ridge Outdoors: Winter Displays in Bristol
- Google News: Bristol Winter Weather
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
