Virginia – Light flakes drift through the New River Valley as the cold air sharpens its edge this morning. Sidewalks crunch. Hills fade in gray haze. Winter conditions are developing now, with snow chances tonight and a dangerous cold snap building toward the MLK Day holiday.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, snow showers arrive tonight and continue into Saturday. Accumulations stay light, but timing matters. Snow falling during colder hours may stick quickly, especially on untreated roads, bridges, and higher elevations around Montgomery County.
Saturday brings a mix of rain and snow during the morning before tapering off. Highs reach the mid-40s, allowing some melting. That brief improvement may set the stage for trouble later. Moisture left on pavement could refreeze after sunset as temperatures drop back below freezing.
Sunday turns colder and quieter. A few lingering snow showers remain possible early, with highs near 30. Any leftover moisture may harden into ice after dark. Drivers along Route 460 and secondary mountain roads should watch for slick patches, especially before sunrise.
The bigger concern arrives by MLK Day. Confidence is increasing that wind chill values fall between zero and 14 below Monday night into early Tuesday. Actual temperatures drop into the single digits, with biting northwest winds adding danger for anyone outdoors.
Residents should limit exposure, dress in layers, and bring pets indoors. Check pipes, drip faucets, and plan ahead for travel. Roads may look clear but remain icy, particularly in shaded valleys.
Cold lingers into midweek before a gradual warmup returns. How cold did it feel outside your door this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Blacksburg, VA
- Today: Partly sunny, cold, high near 39
- Saturday: Chance of rain and snow, high near 44
- Sunday: Slight chance of snow, colder, high near 30
- MLK Day Monday: Sunny but cold, high near 33
- Tuesday: Sunny, bitter cold morning, high near 25
