Virginia governor declares state of emergency before another winter storm

Gov. Ralph Northam (D-Va.) declared a state of emergency Wednesday in preparation for a winter storm, while Virginia is still recovering from a storm earlier this week.

The storm Monday brought more than a foot of snow to some areas of the Commonwealth and stranded thousands of motorists — including Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine — on Interstate 95 for more than 24 hours. Some parts of Virginia are still without have power due to the fallen trees from the previous storm's ice and snow.

The upcoming storm is expected to start Thursday evening. The National Weather Service predicts that it could affect travel conditions again and cause even more electrical outages.

"Having two bouts of snow and icy weather back to back makes it more likely communities will need additional help as they continue to recover from the first round of tree-snapping wet snow and ice that we saw Monday," Northam said in a press release.

The governor was harshly criticized for what some saw as his lack of action following Monday's storm.

"While we typically have ample resources for snow storms, these back-to-back events will generate landmark winter weather that requires extra flexibility," Northam stated. "I am grateful to the hundreds of first responders and emergency personnel who continue to work around the clock to keep Virginians safe."