Route 40 is a popular spot for transient and homeless people, mainly because its an easy place to hitch a ride on a semi. However, authorities said one man's decision to stay alongside the road in a tent was a dangerous one.
Sheriff Mike Simpson said, "Anybody trying to survive in that tent with no heat, is a huge issue."
Deputies had been keeping an eye on the homeless man who had pitched the tent, stopping by the night before to check on him.
"He didn't want any help, was walking, moving fine," said Simpson.
But as the bitter cold snap got worse, authorities said the man staggered out of his tent and flagged down a police cruiser. His face was gray from the cold. An ambulance took the man to Reid Hospital in Richmond, where he is recovering.
On Wednesday, the sight of the lonely tent in the snow remained, reminding people like Ron Thomas how it feels when you have nowhere to call home.
"Been a pretty poor time in my life and I know what it's like," said Thomas.