Baltimore/Washington Region – Dangerous Arctic cold continues across portions of western Virginia and eastern West Virginia, with life-threatening wind chills expected to persist through Thursday morning.
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until 11 a.m. EST Thursday for Western Highland County in Virginia and Western Grant and Western Pendleton counties in West Virginia. The coldest conditions are expected during the overnight and early morning hours.
Wind chill values may drop as low as 25 degrees below zero, creating a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Forecasters warn that exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions. Prolonged exposure without proper protection may quickly become life-threatening.
The extreme cold may also impact mountain travel, particularly along higher-elevation roadways such as U.S. Route 33, U.S. Route 250, and secondary mountain roads that pass through Highland, Grant, and Pendleton counties. Drivers who experience breakdowns or delays in these areas face increased risk due to rapid heat loss.
In addition to personal safety concerns, officials warn that an extended period of freezing temperatures could lead to ruptured water pipes, especially in poorly insulated structures. Residents are encouraged to take preventative measures to protect plumbing and allow indoor faucets to drip if necessary.
The National Weather Service notes that additional cold weather headlines are possible later this week as the region remains under the influence of an Arctic air mass. Even as daytime temperatures rise slightly, overnight wind chills are expected to remain dangerously low.
Residents are urged to dress in layers, including hats, face coverings, and gloves, when going outdoors. Pets should be kept indoors whenever possible, and outdoor animals should have access to warm, dry shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
