Richmond, Virginia – A warmer-than-normal and wetter weather pattern is expected to settle across Virginia heading into Valentine’s Day weekend, increasing the potential for rain, fog, and travel slowdowns from Saturday through midweek. While no single high-impact winter storm is currently signaled, repeated rounds of precipitation could create cumulative impacts on roads, rivers, and drainage systems across the Commonwealth.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Virginia is favored for above-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures during the February 14–18 period. This setup reduces the likelihood of widespread snow while increasing confidence in rain-driven systems, particularly east of the Blue Ridge where milder air is expected to dominate.
Along the I-95 corridor, including Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Northern Virginia, periods of steady rain may lead to ponding on roadways and slower commutes, especially during overnight and early morning hours. Reduced visibility from fog is also possible near river valleys and urban centers during calmer periods.
In central and southwestern Virginia, including Roanoke, Lynchburg, and Blacksburg, temperatures hovering near freezing overnight could allow brief rain-snow mix at times, mainly at higher elevations. Wet road surfaces combined with cooler nighttime temperatures could still create isolated slick spots on secondary roads.
Farther west in the Alleghanys and along I-81, additional moisture falling on existing snowpack may increase runoff into creeks and rivers. Emergency management officials advise monitoring water levels in flood-prone locations and keeping storm drains clear to reduce localized flooding risks.
Air travel through Richmond International Airport and major Northern Virginia hubs is expected to remain operational, though occasional delays are possible during periods of heavier rain or low ceilings. Utilities are monitoring conditions but report no elevated risk for ice-related outages under this warmer pattern.
This warmer, wetter setup is expected to persist into midweek. Additional advisories may be issued as individual systems become clearer, and residents are urged to stay alert for updated alerts, particularly during overnight travel windows when conditions can change quickly.
