Richmond, VA – As the Christmas season continues and Arctic air sweeps down the East Coast, Virginia is bracing for a weekend of frigid temperatures, brisk winds, and possible snow. Forecasts call for overnight lows in the 20s across much of the state, with colder readings in the mountains and wind chills dropping into the teens.
The same Arctic system has pushed freezing air deep into the South, sending temperatures far below normal from the Midwest to the Atlantic. Even Florida was under a Freeze Warning Friday morning — a sign of how far-reaching this cold outbreak has become. For Virginians, the result will be icy roads, slippery bridges, and potentially hazardous travel conditions heading into the Christmas weekend.
State emergency officials are reminding drivers to prepare now by checking vehicles and stocking emergency kits. Recommended items include bottled water, snacks, blankets, gloves, jumper cables, and a flashlight. A shovel, sand or cat litter for traction, and a portable phone charger can also be vital if stranded. Keeping at least half a tank of gas ensures you can stay warm if traffic stalls or conditions worsen.
Travelers using I-95, I-81, and I-64 should anticipate slower travel, especially during early morning and late evening hours when roads are most likely to freeze. The Virginia Department of Transportation advises motorists to monitor forecasts, allow extra time, and stay clear of snowplows and emergency crews.
With Christmas travel underway and Arctic cold gripping the region, preparation remains essential. A ready vehicle and a few extra minutes of planning can help ensure every Virginian gets home safely for the holidays — no matter how cold the road ahead.
