Baltimore, MD – Residents across Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia are bracing for dangerously cold wind chills as an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service, wind chills as low as 20 to 30 degrees below zero are expected in Garrett and Extreme Western Allegany Counties in Maryland, the Highland and Blue Ridge regions of Virginia, and Western Grant, Mineral, and Pendleton Counties in West Virginia. The coldest conditions are anticipated overnight Tuesday through early Wednesday morning.
Frostbite can occur on exposed skin within 30 minutes under these extreme conditions. The extended cold spell may also lead to ruptured water pipes if preventative measures are not taken. Residents are urged to insulate outdoor pipes, drain sprinklers, and allow faucets to drip to avoid freezing.
Protective clothing, including hats, face masks, and insulated gloves, is strongly recommended for those venturing outdoors.
Temperatures are not expected to recover until after the warning expires Thursday morning. For updates, visit weather.gov or check local emergency notifications.