Charleston, WV – Residents in the higher elevations of eastern West Virginia are facing life-threatening cold conditions tonight as an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect through Sunday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.
The warning covers northwest and southeast Pocahontas County, southeast Randolph County, southeast Webster County, and southeast Nicholas County, including communities such as Snowshoe, Marlinton, Richwood, and Harman.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, wind chills are expected to fall as low as -24 to -25 degrees, creating extremely dangerous conditions for anyone exposed to the cold for extended periods. The warning remains active until 1 p.m. Sunday.
Weather officials warn that frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, with hypothermia possible if proper precautions are not taken. In addition to health risks, an extended period of freezing temperatures may lead to ruptured or frozen water pipes, especially in poorly insulated homes.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple warm layers, and cover all exposed skin if travel is unavoidable. Officials strongly recommend keeping pets indoors as much as possible during the cold snap.
Emergency management officials also encourage residents to check on elderly neighbors, family members, and anyone without reliable heating, particularly in rural or higher-elevation areas where temperatures may remain colder longer.
The extreme cold is expected to gradually ease Sunday afternoon, though temperatures may remain below freezing into the evening hours across much of the region.
