Virginia – Cold wind sweeps in off the Atlantic this morning, rattling signs and stinging exposed skin along the coast. Snow is not falling yet, but the setup is unmistakable. A powerful winter storm is lining up, and conditions could turn dangerous quickly this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Friday night through Sunday afternoon for eastern and southeast Virginia, including Virginia Beach. Heavy snow is possible, with totals between 8 and 15 inches in some coastal areas. Wind gusts could reach 50 to 60 mph near the shoreline, raising the risk of whiteout conditions and coastal impacts.
Cold weather advisories remain in effect this morning, with wind chills near zero. Those frigid conditions matter. Once snow begins, it is expected to stick immediately to roads and bridges. Flash freezing is likely after any brief melting, especially during daylight hours Saturday.
Snow chances increase Friday night and intensify Saturday. The worst conditions are expected Saturday into Saturday night, when heavy snow combines with strong winds. Travel could become extremely difficult or impossible. Portions of I-64, U.S. 58, and coastal routes may see closures if conditions deteriorate. Power outages are possible as wind-driven snow loads trees and power lines.
By Sunday, snow may continue into the morning before gradually tapering. Winds remain strong, keeping visibility low and drifting snow across roadways. Even after snowfall ends, icy conditions could linger well into Monday morning.
Looking ahead, colder but drier weather follows early next week as precipitation chances fall across the Mid-Atlantic heading into February.
Five-Day Outlook for Virginia Beach, Virginia
Friday: Increasing clouds, high near 29
Saturday: Heavy snow and very windy, high near 30
Sunday: Snow likely early, windy, high near 28
Monday: Partly sunny, cold, high near 36
Tuesday: Sunny, high near 39
