Blacksburg, Virginia – Strengthening winds and sharply falling temperatures are expected to create hazardous conditions overnight into early Saturday across parts of southwest and south-central Virginia and nearby mountain areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, winds have already begun increasing in the mountains and are expected to become stronger overnight. The strongest wind gusts are forecast along the Blue Ridge and in the West Virginia mountains, where exposed locations may see the highest impacts.
Maximum wind gusts overnight are expected to reach 40 to 55 mph in some areas, particularly along and near Interstate 81, Interstate 77, U.S. Route 460, and Interstate 64. Gusty winds may make travel difficult for high-profile vehicles and could blow around unsecured outdoor objects.
At the same time, temperatures are dropping rapidly, and the combination of cold air and strong winds will drive wind chill values well below zero in locations west of the Blue Ridge. Portions of southwest Virginia and nearby mountain communities could experience wind chills in the single digits and below 0 degrees by early Saturday morning.
Cities and towns including Blacksburg, Roanoke, Wytheville, Martinsville, and Lewisburg are expected to see the most severe conditions late tonight through early Saturday, when winds remain strongest and temperatures are lowest.
The National Weather Service advises residents to limit time outdoors, dress in warm layers including hats and gloves, and secure loose outdoor items. Drivers traveling overnight should use caution, especially on elevated and exposed roadways where sudden gusts may occur.
These conditions may particularly impact overnight workers, early-morning commuters, and students heading out Saturday morning.
