Blacksburg, Virginia – New Year’s Day is starting cold across southwest Virginia, but conditions improve steadily as the morning progresses, bringing brighter skies and milder temperatures by afternoon for many communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, upslope snow showers across the higher elevations are ending early Thursday as dry high pressure builds in from the west. Gusty northwest winds that added an extra chill overnight are expected to weaken through the afternoon, helping temperatures recover despite the cold start.
In the mountains, including Blacksburg, Wytheville, and Bluefield, afternoon highs warm into the 30s. While that remains chilly, sunshine will increase at times, especially later in the day. Farther east, a more noticeable warm-up is expected. Communities across the foothills and Piedmont, including Martinsville, Danville, and Lynchburg, can expect highs in the mid-40s to lower 50s under mostly sunny skies.
Cloud cover will be more persistent west of the Blue Ridge, especially during the morning hours, but overall conditions trend drier and calmer throughout the region. Roads in higher elevations that saw early snow showers may remain damp or slick in shaded areas early, but no widespread travel problems are expected as temperatures rise.
Emergency managers note that improving weather will help ease post-holiday travel, though residents in colder mountain valleys should continue to watch for refreezing early in the day. Dress in layers and use caution on untreated secondary roads during the morning hours.
Looking ahead to the weekend, temperatures continue to moderate, especially at lower elevations, with no significant winter weather expected. The National Weather Service says the return of high pressure sets the stage for a quieter pattern, though additional updates will refine the outlook.
Overall, New Year’s Day brings a welcome break from winter hazards, with sunshine and calmer conditions gradually spreading across southwest Virginia.
