Athens, Ohio – Temperatures will fall below freezing overnight, bringing a cold snap early Monday that could damage plants, impact plumbing, and create slick spots for the morning commute across southeast Ohio and nearby West Virginia.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Freeze Warning is in effect from 2 a.m. to 10 a.m. Monday for counties including Athens, Perry, Morgan, and Vinton in Ohio, along with parts of the West Virginia mountains such as Randolph, Pocahontas, and Webster counties. Lows are expected to drop to around 31 degrees in Ohio and as cold as 28 degrees in higher elevations of West Virginia.
Communities including Athens, McConnelsville, New Lexington, and Elkins will see several hours of sub-freezing temperatures before sunrise. Roads such as US-33, US-50, and WV-92 may develop patchy frost on bridges and overpasses, especially between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m., increasing the risk of slick travel.
The freeze poses a risk to early-season crops, gardens, and exposed outdoor plumbing. Residents should cover sensitive plants, bring potted vegetation indoors, and insulate or disconnect outdoor hoses. Extra caution is advised for early drivers on elevated roadways.
Temperatures will rise above freezing after 10 a.m. Monday, ending the immediate threat. Additional alerts may be issued if cold conditions persist into the coming days.
