Virginia wakes to sharp winter air in the New River Valley, with frozen lawns, stiff door handles, and icy breath hanging in the dark. Blacksburg begins the day near 22 degrees, locking in the coldest conditions of the week and raising early travel concerns.
According to the National Weather Service, today stays sunny but cold. Afternoon highs climb into the mid-40s, though shaded roads and sidewalks may remain slick through the morning. Bridges and higher elevations cool fastest, increasing black ice risk before mid-morning.
Conditions improve Wednesday as temperatures rebound. Highs reach near 50 degrees with increasing clouds. Melting frost may leave damp pavement by late day, but travel conditions remain manageable for most of the region.
Attention turns to Thursday. Milder air pushes highs near 50 again, but rain chances increase through the day. By Thursday night, rain becomes widespread, with a 100 percent chance of precipitation. Wet roads and reduced visibility could slow evening travel, especially along U.S. 460 and Route 114.
Meteorologists are watching the next transition closely. Rain tapers early Friday, but colder air follows quickly. Temperatures drop into the low 20s Friday night. This setup raises concern for flash freezing, when leftover moisture refreezes and creates slick roads by early Saturday.
Drivers should plan extra time Thursday night and early Friday. Keep winter gear in vehicles and remain alert as conditions change quickly.
Looking ahead to the weekend, calmer weather returns. Saturday stays sunny but cool, with highs near 50. Sunday turns slightly milder, helping holiday errands and local travel.
5-Day Outlook for Blacksburg, VA
- Today: Sunny, cold, high near 45
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 50
- Thursday: Chance of rain, high near 50
- Friday: Showers early, colder later, high near 39
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 50
