Blacksburg, VA – Residents across western and central Virginia, along with nearby portions of West Virginia and North Carolina, are being warned of dangerously cold wind chills tonight into Monday morning, with conditions capable of causing frostbite on exposed skin in a short amount of time.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, the coldest wind chill values are expected along and west of the Blue Ridge, where increasing winds combined with frigid temperatures will drive “feels-like” temperatures well below actual air readings. Some locations may experience wind chills cold enough to cause frostbite in as little as 10 to 30 minutes.
The greatest impacts are expected in the New River Valley, Roanoke Valley, Alleghany Highlands, and higher elevations of southwest Virginia, as well as adjacent mountain areas of southern West Virginia. Gusty winds will continue overnight, making conditions feel significantly colder through early Monday.
The National Weather Service advises anyone who must go outdoors to dress in multiple layers, wear hats and gloves, and cover all exposed skin. Officials also recommend limiting time outside, especially for children, older adults, and those without adequate shelter or heating.
Pet owners are urged to bring animals indoors, as extreme cold can become life-threatening quickly. Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and vulnerable populations, and ensure vehicles are winter-ready with emergency supplies.
Wind chill charts released by the National Weather Service show that even temperatures in the teens and 20s can feel well below zero when winds increase, dramatically raising the risk of cold-related injuries.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Monday as winds ease, though cold temperatures will persist across the region.
