Snow squall causes multiple-vehicle pileup, closes I-81 at Harrisonburg

A sudden snow squall this morning caused a multiple-vehicle wreck that closed I-81 at Harrisonburg for four hours, causing delays and problems for travelers.

From NBC-29:

The Virginia State Police along with the assistance of local emergency agencies are investigating a multi- vehicle crash in the northbound lanes of Interstate 81 in the area of the 243 mile marker in the City of Harrisonburg. At approximately 8:30 a.m. Tuesday (Jan. 3, 2012), a sudden snow squall came through the area which caused limited visibility and rapidly deteriorating road conditions. The crash is estimated to involve 20 vehicles which resulted in four injuries, with three minor in nature.

Northbound lanes of I-81 were re-opened by approximately 12:25 p.m. Tuesday.

Daytime highs are only expected to be in the mid-20s with more snow flurries/squalls possible as heavy snow continues to the west. Highland County is expecting 6-12" of snow.

Many local schools were on delayed schedules today including Augusta County where students went in one hour late.