Charleston, West Virginia – Life-threatening winter conditions are expected to rapidly intensify across the central and southern Appalachians starting Friday, as an Arctic front barrels into the region with heavy snow, damaging winds, and dangerously cold wind chills that could make travel and outdoor exposure hazardous through early Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service, Winter Storm Watches are in effect for much of West Virginia, western Maryland, and the higher elevations of central and southwestern Pennsylvania. Snowfall totals of 4 to 7 inches are possible across northeast, northern, and southeast West Virginia, with localized higher amounts along ridgetops. In the Laurel Highlands and the Alleghenies, snow combined with wind gusts up to 50 mph could create near-blizzard or whiteout conditions, especially Friday night.
Roadways including I-68, US-219, US-33, and mountain passes across Garrett County, MD, and Preston, Tucker, and Randolph counties in West Virginia could become impassable due to blowing and drifting snow. Officials warn that visibility may drop below a quarter mile at times, making travel potentially life-threatening.
The cold will be just as dangerous as the snow. Wind chills are expected to plunge to 20 to 30 below zero across higher elevations Friday night into Saturday morning. Frostbite can occur in less than 30 minutes, even faster in areas exposed to strong winds. The Arctic air mass is being reinforced by extensive ice cover on the Great Lakes, helping lock in the extreme cold.
Residents should delay all non-essential travel, secure loose outdoor items, and prepare for possible power outages. Wrap exposed pipes, allow faucets to drip, and keep cabinet doors open to prevent freezing. Dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and bring pets indoors.
Conditions may gradually improve later Saturday, but the cold remains dangerous into the weekend. Additional warnings or upgrades are likely as the storm develops.
