State of Emergency Declared, Roanoke Affordable Housing Plan, Rockbridge Human Trafficking Arrest & More

WFIR News Express brings you the latest headlines fromRoanoke, Botetourt, Bedford, Franklin County, and the surrounding region.Governor Glenn Youngkin declares a state of emergency, triggeringVirginia’s anti-price gouging law to prevent unfair hikes on essentials like food and gas.VDOT crews prepare roads ahead of a mix of snow, ice, and sleet expected across Southwest Virginia.In Roanoke,City Council requests a judge to fill Mayor Joe Cobb’s vacant seat, while thePlanning Commission approves a rezoning plan for a150-unit affordable housing project in Southeast Roanoke. Supporters say it willhelp low-income residents, but some neighborsexpress traffic concerns.Elsewhere, authorities arrest aRockbridge County man on human trafficking charges, whilea Henry County man is charged after making a bomb threat at Dollar General. In Radford,a Bluefield man is in custody after leading police on a six-mile chase in a stolen vehicle.In health news,Carilion Clinic expands midwifery services to meet growing demand inRoanoke and Rocky Mount, offering24-hour care at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.In sports,Virginia High School League bans transgender athletes from girls’ sports, followingTrump’s new executive order. And in entertainment,rock legend Alice Cooper is coming to the Salem Civic Center this August—tickets go on sale Friday.Stay informed with the latest updates from acrossRoanoke and Southwest Virginia with WFIR News Express.