City of Richmond Winter Weather Updates

Last updated 12/9/25 at 6:00 p.m.

During Richmond's winter weather season, the City will share information about resources, closures, and delays on this page.

Latest updates

• 12/9 — City of Richmond to Resume Normal Operations on Wednesday, Dec. 10.
• 12/9 — Marshall Street Plaza closed due to HVAC issues; DSS clients can reach services at Southside Plaza (4100 Hull Street Road) or by calling 804-646-7000.
• 12/9 — UPDATE: City of Richmond Extends Delayed Opening to 12 p.m. This link includes a breakdown of service impacts to trash collection and street cleaning, both of which are delayed on 12/9.
• 12/8 — The following roadways are now closed and will remain closed until the streets are clear:
  • Boulevard Bridge both sides of the bridge - North and South
  • Brown's Island Way at S. 2nd Street and at Tredegar Street
  • Byrd Street at 3rd Street and at 4th Street
  • N. 23rd Street at Franklin Street and at Grace Street
  • N. 25th Street at Main Street, Franklin Street, Grace Street, and Broad Street
  • E. Marshall Street at N. 21st Street and at 20th Street
  • Duval Street (900 N. 7th Street) at N. 5th Street and at N. 7th Street
  • 500 Hospital Street at N. Hospital Street and at 195 & 164
Ramp

• 12/8 — City of Richmond to Close Ahead of Inclement Weather (Monday, December 8)
• 12/7 — The City of Richmond continues to evaluate potential impacts of the winter weather forecasted for Monday, Dec. 8.
• 12/5 — City shares preparation efforts and additional safety advice for residents during the winter weather season.
• 12/4 — City of Richmond buildings and offices will be closed on Friday, December 5. Virtual services are still available.
• 12/4 — The City has scaled back festivities for RVA Illuminates on the evening of December 5. The official holiday lighting can be viewed on WRIC 8 beginning at 5:45 p.m.
• 12/4 — The Main Street Station Holiday Magic Open House, still scheduled for Sunday, December 7, has moved its evening movie event indoors.

Resources during Extreme Cold

• During the winter, Richmond operates overnight cold weather shelters. Find all information about shelters and daytime warming options on our Inclement Weather Shelter page.
• Heating and energy bills can go up during cold temperatures. The Department of Public Utilities offers affordability programs to support residents with these additional expenses.
• The Virginia Department of Health shares steps for winter weather preparedness and well-being, including safe traveling, planning for outdoor activities, and protecting against fire hazards and carbon monoxide.

Tips for traveling in the snow and near snow plows

• Leave early and allow extra travel time
• Slow Down. Reduce your speed, even if the road looks clear, black ice can be hidden
• Maintain a larger gap between you and the vehicle ahead to allow for better reaction time
• Keep your Vehicle Clean - if you need to travel, please completely clean your entire vehicle of all snow & ice from windows, mirrors, the hood, trunk, and roof. As it melts, the ice/snow can break & strike other cars behind you.
  • If you don't completely remove snow and ice from your car you could be cited for reckless driving or negligence and/or be sued for negligence if ice flies off your car and causes an accident or damages or hurts someone
• Be aware of areas icy areas like bridges and shady spots which freeze before other areas
• Keep an emergency winter kit in your car
  • Don't tailgate - Give plows plenty of space to work
  • Maintain a safe distance - they may suddenly slow down
  • Be mindful of blind spots - snowplows have large blind spots, especially on the sides and behind them. If you can't see their mirrors, they likely can't see you.
  • Yield to snowplows when they are clearing intersections - they may not have the flexibility to move out of your way.
  • Don't pass a snowplow.
• Learn about the City's snow removal procedures.

Additional Winter Safety Information

• Sign up for Richmond Ready Alerts to receive critical emergency and weather notifications from the city of Richmond. Text RVAREADY to 888-777 to receive a sign-up link or visit rva.gov/richmondreadyalerts to learn more.
• Never use stoves or ovens as a heat source. Use only safe sources of alternative heat such as a fireplace or a portable space heater.
• Be cautious when using a generator and ensure that it is positioned outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup inside your home.
• Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing.
• Be vigilant when walking outdoors; icy surfaces can pose a hazard. Ensure that walkways and driveways are cleared of snow and ice to prevent slips and falls.
• In case of power outages, have emergency supplies on hand, including food, water, and flashlights. To report power outages, downed power lines or damaged electrical equipment, contact Dominion Energy at 1-866-366-4357.
• Secure and reinforce all windows, roofs, doors, and garage doors.
• Continue to monitor weather conditions and stay informed through trusted sources, like local news outlets and The National Weather Service Wakefield.