Blacksburg, VA – Residents in western Greenbrier County, West Virginia, are urged to prepare for dangerously cold conditions as an Extreme Cold Warning goes into effect early Sunday and lasts into Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, the warning will be in place from 4 a.m. Sunday until 10 a.m. Monday for western Greenbrier County, including the communities of Rainelle, Quinwood, and Duo.
Forecasters warn that wind chill values could plunge as low as −25 degrees, creating a serious risk of frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Prolonged exposure may also lead to hypothermia, even for those spending limited time outdoors without proper protection.
The extended period of extreme cold could also result in frozen or burst water pipes, especially in homes with exposed or poorly insulated plumbing. Mountain and valley locations are expected to experience the harshest conditions, particularly overnight.
Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple layers, and ensure hats, gloves, and face coverings are worn if going outside. Homeowners are advised to wrap exposed pipes or allow faucets to drip slowly to prevent freezing. Pets should be brought indoors, and neighbors who may need assistance should be checked on ahead of the coldest period.
Temperatures are expected to gradually improve later Monday, but officials stress that conditions will remain dangerous until wind chills rise above critical thresholds.
