Virginia Members Assist with Snow-Related Highway Problems

The Virginia Wing flew aerial surveys Jan. 4 of roads between Richmond and Quantico at the request of the state Department of Emergency Management and Department of Transportation after the region’s heaviest recorded snowfall  in several years created widespread traffic jams and other problems. 

More than a foot of snow fell in some areas.

Fourteen wing members participated, including two aircrews from the Leesburg and Southside composite squadrons that flew low-level routes to photograph road conditions and automobile accidents, traffic jams, road damage and debris, stranded motorists and individuals in distress, pedestrians on highways or other significant issues such as downed power lines. 

Ann incident command worked virtually to coordinate and support effort, and individual members monitored radio communications along the flight routes. 

The snow left parts of Interstate 95 closed, stranding numerous motorists on portions of a 50-mile stretch between Richmond and Washington, D.C., partly because of disabled trucks blocking the way, authorities said. 

_____ 
Capt. Christopher L. Freeze 
Public Affairs Officer
Leesburg Composite Squadron 
Virginia Wing