Wakefield, Virginia – Dangerous cold and high winds are expected across much of Virginia, Maryland, and northeastern North Carolina from Saturday morning through Sunday morning, prompting multiple alerts from the National Weather Service.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, an Extreme Cold Warning is in effect for the Lower Maryland Eastern Shore and Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Wind chill values in these areas are forecast to drop between -10°F and -5°F, creating conditions that can lead to frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
A Cold Weather Advisory covers portions of central and eastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina, where wind chills are expected to range from -5°F to 5°F overnight and early Sunday.
In addition to the cold, a High Wind Warning is in effect for the Virginia Eastern Shore, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Portsmouth. Northwest winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts reaching 55 to 60 mph are possible. A Wind Advisory covers much of the rest of Virginia and most of northeastern North Carolina, with gusts up to 45 to 50 mph.
The strongest winds are expected to impact travel along major corridors including Interstate 64, Interstate 95, U.S. Route 13, and coastal bridges and tunnels, where high-profile vehicles may experience difficult driving conditions.
The National Weather Service warns that gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects and may down trees or power lines, resulting in isolated power outages. Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, limit time outdoors, and ensure pets and livestock have adequate shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
Commuters, students, and overnight workers should plan for hazardous early-morning conditions, especially Saturday night into Sunday morning.
