Virginia – Snowflakes swirl across mountain ridges this morning as wind rattles bare branches and visibility drops fast. Roads look wet now, but that won’t last long. Winter conditions are building quickly across Southwest Virginia, and they won’t ease until Sunday.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Blacksburg and surrounding counties through Sunday afternoon. Heavy snow is expected, with totals between 4 and 7 inches. Gusty winds could reach 50 mph, creating blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility. Travel could become very difficult, especially on higher elevations and exposed roadways.
At the same time, an Extreme Cold Watch goes into effect Saturday afternoon through Sunday. Wind chills could fall as low as 20 degrees below zero. Frostbite can develop on exposed skin in under 30 minutes. Conditions may deteriorate rapidly after sunset as temperatures fall and winds increase.
Snow develops through today and intensifies tonight. Saturday brings additional rounds of snow, with brief lulls possible. By Saturday night, colder air locks in. Any melted snow will refreeze quickly, creating icy roads. Expect hazardous travel along U.S. Route 460, Route 114, and secondary mountain roads.
Plan now. Avoid unnecessary travel. Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle if you must drive. Charge devices, protect pipes, and bring pets indoors. Check on neighbors who may lack adequate heat.
This storm is part of a larger Arctic blast gripping the eastern U.S. With the Great Lakes nearly 50 percent frozen, cold air continues surging south. Meteorologists are watching early February for additional winter systems.
Five-Day Outlook for Blacksburg, VA
Friday: Snow likely, high near 26
Saturday: Snow continues, windy, high near 21
Sunday: Mostly sunny, bitter cold, high near 21
Monday: Mostly sunny, cold, high near 30
Tuesday: Partly sunny, moderating, high near 35
