Virginia – A thin sheet of ice glistens over cars and bridges in Blacksburg this morning as freezing rain lingers under cold gray skies. The air bites at 32°F, and the steady sound of rain tapping on windows hides what drivers are already discovering — slick and treacherous travel conditions across southwest Virginia.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until noon, with a wintry mix continuing across Montgomery, Pulaski, Floyd, and Roanoke Counties. Total ice accumulation could reach up to two-tenths of an inch, enough to glaze untreated surfaces and make early travel hazardous.
Commuters along I-81, Route 460, and local mountain roads should reduce speed and allow extra time, particularly on elevated bridges and shaded areas. Even light ice can create black ice patches invisible to the eye, posing risks for both vehicles and pedestrians.
Conditions begin improving by afternoon as temperatures rise into the low 40s, melting much of the surface ice and bringing partial clearing by sunset. Sunshine returns midweek with highs in the 40s and lows in the 20s, before another chance of snow showers arrives Friday as Arctic air dips back into the region.
This marks one of the first true winter travel mornings of the season for Virginia — a cold reminder to keep caution in mind through December’s unpredictable weather swings.
Notice freezing rain on your drive? Let us know how roads look in your area this morning.
