Va. governor declares state of emergency

Governor Timothy M. Kaine (D) declared a state of emergency today in Virginia -- an action that will authorize state agencies to assist local governments responding to the winter storm that's expected to hit the D.C. region today and tomorrow.

“The snowfall amounts along with strong winds could cause serious problems, including power outages, throughout much of Virginia,” Kaine said in a press release. “Virginians need to pay attention to their local weather forecasters, avoid travel, and prepare to be on their own for up to 72 hours.”

In declaring a state of emergency, the governor authorizes state agencies to identify and position resources for quick response anywhere they are needed in Virginia. In anticipation of this weather system:

The Virginia Emergency Operations Center is being staffed with response team members from several state agencies, major utilities and other affiliated organizations and is coordinating the state response to the storm.

* The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has held weather conference calls with the National Weather Service, local governments and state agencies.

* The Virginia State Police and the Virginia Department of Transportation are ready to keep roadways clear.

* The Virginia Department of Forestry is on standby for debris cleanup.

* The Virginia National Guard is on standby to assist with emergency transport.

Virginians can check road conditions before they leave home by calling 511 or logging in to 511Virginia.org