BLACKSBURG, VA – A gray, wind-whipped sky greets Virginia’s mountain region this morning as winter tightens its grip on the New River Valley. Temperatures hover near freezing, and light flurries drift through the air — a preview of colder, stormier days ahead.
Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in Blacksburg warn that snow showers will develop Friday, especially from Roanoke to Wytheville and along the I-81 corridor. Though early accumulations should stay light, slick roads and low visibility may impact travel Friday afternoon into evening.
Behind that clipper system comes the coldest air of the season. By Sunday night, wind chills may drop to near zero, especially in higher terrain and open valleys. Temperatures will struggle to climb above the mid-20s to low 30s Sunday, making this weekend a true test of early-December endurance.
“Bundle up and plan ahead,” forecasters urge. “These wind chills can be dangerous for anyone outdoors for long periods.”
Monday morning continues the Arctic pattern before a gradual warm-up midweek. Sunshine returns, but highs will remain chilly through Tuesday.
5-Day Outlook (Dec. 11–15):
- Friday: Snow showers likely, high 35°F.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high 40°F.
- Sunday: Bitter cold, high 23°F, wind chills near zero.
- Monday: Sunny, high 30°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 41°F.
