Charleston, West Virginia – A dangerously cold air mass has settled over the region, keeping temperatures from rising above freezing for much of the upcoming period, with extreme wind chills posing a serious health risk, according to the National Weather Service.
An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect for portions of northern and eastern West Virginia, including areas near Charleston, from 6 a.m. Monday through noon Tuesday, where wind chill values are expected to drop as low as 27 degrees below zero. Surrounding areas remain under a Cold Weather Advisory, with wind chills ranging from 13 to 17 degrees below zero.
Overnight low temperatures are forecast to fall into the single digits, with daytime highs struggling to reach the teens and lower 20s. Forecasters warn that frostbite and hypothermia can occur with prolonged exposure, especially during the overnight and early morning hours.
The National Weather Service says this prolonged stretch of arctic cold is expected to last through the end of the month, increasing the risk of black ice on roadways, frozen pipes, and strain on power systems. Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple layers, and ensure pets are brought indoors.
Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, outdoor workers, and those without reliable heat, are especially at risk during this extended cold spell.
Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, monitor local forecasts, and take precautions as dangerously cold conditions persist across the region into Tuesday and beyond.
