CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – About 300 members of the Virginia National Guard are on duty, standing by to help localities around the Commonwealth respond to the forecasted winter storm expected to hit the area Saturday afternoon into the evening.

“While Virginia’s localities are equipped to respond to winter weather, the Virginia National Guard is ready to provide additional capabilities should they become necessary,” said Brig. Gen. Todd H. Hubbard, VNG Director of the Joint Staff, in a statement. “On short notice, our personnel safely moved to their staging locations and are ready to assist when conditions deteriorate. I thank the Soldiers, Airmen and Virginia Defense Force volunteers who are ready to help their fellow Virginians, and I thank their families and employers for everything they do to make sure our personnel can conduct the mission.”

Response crews staged at National Guard bases around Virginia will coordinate with local officials to determine where and what work needs to be done.

The Charlottesville and Albemarle County area is predicted to receive anywhere from 4-12 inches of snow and ice, starting around 5 p.m. Saturday. Gov. Abigail Spanberger on Thursday in anticipation of Saturday’s weather.

“Our top priority is the safety of every Virginian,” Spanberger said in a statement. “State agencies are mobilized and we are working closely with local governments and utility partners.”

Charlottesville and Albemarle County jointly declared a state of emergency Saturday.

“Our emergency management teams are working hand in hand to monitor conditions and support response efforts across the region,” said Jeff Richardson, County Executive for Albemarle County. “This collaboration strengthens our ability to keep residents safe and informed.”

“Severe weather does not stop at jurisdictional boundaries,” said Sam Sanders, City Manager for the City of Charlottesville. “This declaration ensures we are aligned, prepared, and communicating clearly with the public as conditions worsen.”