Norfolk, Virginia – A surge of Arctic air is pressing into eastern Virginia and North Carolina, setting up a prolonged stretch of bitter winter weather that could last through the end of January and into early February. Temperatures are expected to drop sharply this weekend, with overnight lows falling well below normal and daytime highs struggling to recover, especially inland from the coast.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the pattern from Jan. 27 through early February favors much below normal temperatures across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. This Arctic air mass is part of a broader national outbreak driving extreme cold across the Midwest and Northeast, while pushing freezing air unusually far south into the Carolinas.
The most immediate concern for eastern Virginia and North Carolina is the risk of wintry precipitation this weekend. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are possible from the Hampton Roads region through northeastern and central North Carolina, creating slick travel along I-64, I-95, I-40, U.S. 17, and secondary roads. Even light icing could cause hazardous driving, especially on bridges and overpasses. Hard freezes overnight also raise concerns for frozen pipes, power strain, and coastal infrastructure.
While brief moderation may occur at times, no sustained warm-up is expected before Feb. 2. Residents are urged to limit travel during icy periods, protect exposed plumbing, bring pets indoors, and stay alert as additional winter weather advisories and cold alerts may be issued while this Arctic pattern remains firmly in place.
