FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to avoid travel due to hazardous conditions.

This comes after a winter storm brought ice, downed trees, and widespread power outages across the region.

Authorities report that numerous roads remain impassable, and falling trees continue to pose a significant danger to drivers.

A tree with power lines shut down the southbound lanes of Route 220 at Goose Dam Road on the morning of February 13.

“You could be driving and not see a tree fall in front of you or on your vehicle,” the sheriff’s office warned in a Facebook post.

First responders and Virginia Department of Transportation crews have been working through the night to clear roadways and address emergency service calls.

However, officials say that conditions remain dangerous, and residents should stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.

“As daylight approaches and damage assessments continue, use extreme caution if you must travel,” the sheriff’s office advised.

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