Marietta, Ohio – Dangerous cold and gusty winds are developing across parts of West Virginia and the Ohio Valley today, with the most severe conditions expected over higher elevations by this evening and overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, Cold Weather Warnings are now in effect for the higher ridges of northern West Virginia, while Cold Weather Advisories have expanded across much of the region, including the lowlands. These alerts remain in effect through Tuesday.
Forecasters say gusty winds strengthening this morning will be strongest across northeast mountain ridges through this afternoon. Wind Advisories remain in effect from 8 a.m. through 7 p.m. today for areas including northwest Pocahontas and southeast Randolph counties.
The combination of arctic air and strong winds will create dangerous wind chills. In higher mountainous terrain, wind chills are expected to drop between -12 and -22 degrees, while most other areas could see wind chills ranging from -6 to -12 degrees.
Officials warn that exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and wear hats, gloves, and face protection if travel is unavoidable.
Authorities are also monitoring the potential for another arctic outbreak next weekend, which could bring accumulating snow to parts of the region.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office in Ohio shared the alert, encouraging residents with travel plans into West Virginia or higher elevations to remain weather-aware and prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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