RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is urging Virginians to prepare "as soon as possible" for the first winter storm of 2025, which will arrive in the Commonwealth on Sunday. Virginians across the state can expect to see the effects of this powerful winter storm beginning the evening of Sunday, Jan. 5 and continuing into Monday, Jan. 6. For Central Virginians, Stormtracker8 meteorologists warn that snow will start to fall between 7 and 9 p.m. Sunday night. In areas like VDOT's Culpeper District -- which includes Albemarle, Culpeper, Fauquier, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Madison, Orange and Rappahannock counties, as well as the city of Charlottesville -- the department warns that up to 10 inches of snow is possible, according to a Jan. 3 press release. The department added that more southern Culpeper District counties -- like Albemarle, Fluvanna and Louisa -- could see lower snow totals overall, but that snow will be mixed with sleet and freezing rain. VDOT said Virginians should begin preparing now -- including getting any necessary travel out of the way prior to the weekend. "Many people are traveling after the holidays this weekend and those traveling should plan or alter their trips to arrive at their destination before the storm," VDOT said. "Given the forecast accumulations, VDOT advises against travel during the storm." How to stay safe on the road, at home this winter: RHHD The department will be pre-treating Interstates, as well as both primary and major secondary roadways, on Saturday, Jan. 4 in preparation for the storm. Brine trucks will spray a mix of salt and water on said roadways. If you're on the road on Saturday, VDOT asked that you give these trucks room so they can do this work effectively. If you must travel during the storm, VDOT warned that roads will be slick and drivers should expect to see ice. Remember to fully clear your car of any accumulated snow before driving and leave at least five seconds between yourself and any other vehicles on the road. You should also consider packing an emergency kit and keeping it in your vehicle. Additional winter driving tips from VDOT can be found here. The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) also put out a guide on how to stay safe both at home and on the road during winter weather, which can be found here. A look back at the 1998 Christmas Ice Storm that devastated Central Virginia You can visit Virginia 511 online or call 511 to get up-to-date information on road conditions -- and make sure to check your entire planned route, as conditions will vary, especially if you're moving north or west.