Drivers on I-81 should beware as a cold front pushes through our Commonwealth Thursday night through Saturday morning. Winds will be powered by the intense cold front that will bring cooler temperatures than we’ve been enjoying this week. Winds are expected to be sustained between 20-30mph with gusts topping at 60mph. Sixty mph hour gusts are strong enough to topple trampolines and unsecured porch furniture.
It’s Just Wind, Why the Alarm?
Unfortunately, its not just wind. It’s the unsecured children’s toys, trash, furniture and falling trees that cause dangers for drivers and homes. These items can be caught in winds and find their way to neighborhood streets or major roadways and become obstacles for unsuspecting drivers.
Falling trees on roadways can be especially dangerous. Around 100 people are killed by falling trees each year, while this number isn’t high, it is high enough to take heed. Those 100 deaths don’t account for those seriously injured or people who are injured in accidents that occur after a tree has fallen across a roadway.
Wind Also Causes Power Outages
As we know from the 2012 Derecho, widespread power outages can disable a city for extended periods of time. Personally, I’ll never forget the 2012 experience because power was not restored to my home for 7 days. We lost all of our refrigerated food, had no lights or air conditioning. My staff and I managed to work at the public library while power was out here at the office. Many of my neighbors purchased generators that week and use them regularly since. If you use one, follow the manufacturers directions and consistently monitor carbon dioxide levels inside your home.
If you do not have a generator, plan an alternate heat source, as temperatures are expected to drop during the next few days.
Do Strong Winds Cause Accidents?
You bet they do. Ever traveled Fancy Gap on I-77? High profile vehicles are notorious for being tipped over by high winds on that mountain. And the phenonmenon does not just occur on Fancy Gap. High Profile vehicles (think tractor trailers), trucks, vans and SUVs are vunerable anywhere there are high winds. Use caution when traveling near these vehicles on windy days. Be especially careful when passing and remember to allow at least 6 seconds of following distance.
Stay safe this week as you travel through the areas affected by the High Wind Watch. Areas include but are not limited to Winchester, Front Royal, Manassas, and Fairfax along the I-66 corridor and New Market, Harrisonburg, Staunton, Lexington, Roanoke, Blacksburg along the I-81 corridor. If you have been injured in a car accident that was not your fault call The Thomson Law Firm for a FREE consultation. There is no time limit for free consultations with Roanoke Attorney Paul Thomson. Call today (540) 777-4900
