Danville Public Works Department crews are pretreating major streets, bridges, and overpasses today ahead of heavy snow expected after daybreak Wednesday and continuing through the evening.

The National Weather Service in Blacksburg forecasts 4 to 6 inches of snow for Danville, with at least 1 to 2 inches expected.

“If this (storm) strengthens more than we currently forecast, then you could see an accumulation upward to 8 inches,” said meteorologist Phillip Manuel.

East of Danville, snowfall will be heavier, with coastal areas possibly getting 10 to 12 inches.

Temperatures in the city will stay below freezing on Wednesday and in the low 30s on Thursday. “It’s not going away quick,” Manuel said.

Motorists should expect slippery roads, potentially affecting Wednesday’s morning and evening commutes.

Citizens should monitor the latest forecasts for any changes in track, timing and totals.

Public Works crews use a mixture of water and salt to create a brine solution to pretreat streets. The water evaporates, leaving the salt behind on the road surface. The salt keeps snow and sleet from bonding on the surface, and it helps to prevent ice from forming.

Residential streets are not pretreated.

When snow accumulations reach more than one inch, Public Works crews will begin a round-the-clock snow removal operation, beginning with the highest traffic volume streets.

Danville Utilities crews are prepared to respond as needed. Customers are encouraged to review the Danville Utilities’ storm preparation guide.

If any resident or visitor needs shelter, then they should call the City of Danville non-emergency number, which is 434-799-5111, option 8. Arrangements for shelter will be made.