From Virginia with Love
Our hearts go out to the communities in Southwest Virginia and our neighboring states impacted by Hurricane Helene. While the storm has passed, the effects will be felt in some of our Southwest Virginia communities for weeks and months to come.
Resident and visitor safety is our top priority, and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Virginia Department of Transportation are monitoring conditions as response efforts are underway.
For visitors planning to travel to or through the southwestern region of Virginia in the coming weeks, please be aware there are some areas without power or phone service, and you may encounter closed roads and storm debris along the way. Please exercise caution and allow extra travel time during this developing situation. While travel in some Southwest Virginia destinations is challenging at this time, some counties and cities in the region are open and ready to welcome visitors.
Anyone traveling in these areas should confirm their travel plans to ensure their desired destinations and attractions are able to welcome visitors. Visitors should plan driving routes in advance using the 511 Virginia resource from the Virginia Department of Transportation.
For visitors needing alternative travel options, many Virginia regions remain open for business.
Traveler Assistance & Welcome Centers
Visitors are encouraged to call 1.800.847.4882 for planning assistance if alternative travel plans are necessary or follow @visitvirginia on social media for updates. This page will also be updated regularly with the latest information.
For traveler assistance navigating road closures in Southwest Virginia, please call the Virginia Welcome Center at Covington - 540.559.3010 or the Virginia Welcome Center at Clear Brook - at 540.722.3448.
Please note, our Welcome Centers are staffed from 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.
Travel Tips
- Bring cash as connectivity issues may affect access to ATMs and credit card usage
- Check with lodging and attractions prior to traveling to ensure they are open and accessible.
- Print your map and driving route as cell service and GPS may be limited
- Plan for limited gas availability
Road Closures & Emergency Response
Please visit 511 Virginia or download the Virginia 511 mobile app for road closures and current traffic conditions.
For roadways, the public should report any concerns such as flooding, downed trees, or road hazards to VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or calling 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623).
For Virginia emergency response information, visit https://www.vaemergency.gov/.
Travel Updates
The Blue Ridge Parkway (from milepost 0 to milepost 198 in Virginia) has reopened as of 8 a.m. on Friday, October 11 after closures due to impacts from Hurricane Helene. The National Park Service hopes to reopen the remainder of the parkway in Virginia within the next two weeks.
Shenandoah National Park is open. Visitors are encouraged to be aware of increased traffic that may occur within the park this fall and to bring their patience as they share the space with others. Check the park Facebook page for regular updates.
Forest Service George Washington and Jefferson National Forests Closures
Relief & Recovery
If you would like to help support the affected areas, please visit United Way of Southwest Virginia - Disaster Relief Fund
For FAQs about recovering from a natural disaster, visit https://www.vaemergency.gov/recover/hurricane-helene-faq