Blacksburg, VA – The first blast of December winter is moving into Virginia tonight, carrying freezing rain, sleet, and a glaze of ice that could make travel treacherous by sunrise Tuesday. Roadways from Blacksburg to Roanoke and Wytheville are expected to become slick as temperatures hover near freezing through the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 7 p.m. Monday to noon Tuesday for much of southwest Virginia, northwest North Carolina, and southern West Virginia. The system is expected to bring up to half an inch of snow and ice accumulations near two-tenths of an inch, enough to cause hazardous conditions on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads.
Meteorologists say the heaviest freezing rain is likely between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m. Tuesday, before temperatures slowly climb above freezing later in the day. “Even a thin glaze of ice can make travel dangerous,” forecasters warned. Residents are urged to slow down, allow extra time, and avoid unnecessary driving through Tuesday morning. Sidewalks and parking lots may also become slippery, especially before daybreak.
By Wednesday, calmer weather returns with sunshine and highs near 42°F. The next system arrives Friday, bringing a renewed chance for snow or a rain-snow mix as colder air filters back into the region. Expect another icy stretch into next weekend as early winter continues to settle in across the Blue Ridge.
5-Day Outlook (Blacksburg, VA):
- Tuesday: Rain early, then clearing. High 42°F. Ice possible early.
- Wednesday: Sunny, calmer. High 42°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny. High 42°F.
- Friday: Rain or snow likely. High 34°F.
- Saturday: Cloudy, lingering flurries. High near 40°F.
