Davis, West Virginia – Frost blanketed mountain valleys across West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland early Sunday as cold air settled into sheltered areas, threatening gardens and sensitive vegetation.
According to the National Weather Service, a frost advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. EDT for high-elevation counties including Western Garrett in Maryland, Western Highland in Virginia, and Western Grant, Pendleton, and Tucker counties in West Virginia. Temperatures dipped to 34°F in many locations, and dropped as low as 31°F in the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
In West Virginia, cities such as Davis, Thomas, and Marlinton saw early-morning frost formation. Across the border, Highland County, Virginia, and Garrett County, Maryland, also reported sub-freezing pockets in valleys and hollows. Residents in these regions are advised to take precautions to prevent damage to tender outdoor plants.
Agricultural experts recommend covering crops, bringing potted plants indoors, and avoiding early morning watering, which can increase frost damage. Even brief exposure to temperatures near freezing can be fatal for seedlings, flowers, and fruiting plants.
With clear skies and light winds continuing, the potential for frost could return overnight. Additional advisories may be issued if conditions persist into Monday morning.
