Virginia wakes up under a hard winter edge this morning, where the air feels sharp and the mountains hold onto the cold. Wind brushes across ridgelines. Pavement stays dull and dry for now, but change is coming.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a surge of bitter Arctic air settles over southwest Virginia through the end of the week. While widespread hazardous weather remains low today, confidence is growing for accumulating snow beginning Friday and continuing into the weekend. Temperatures remain well below normal, keeping any snowfall impactful.
Highs today only reach the upper 20s around Blacksburg, with overnight lows dropping into the single digits. Calm conditions early give way to increasing clouds later, setting the stage for the next system. Even before snow arrives, cold roads raise concerns for slick spots during early morning and evening travel.
By Friday, moisture pushes in as cold air stays locked in place. Snow chances increase through Friday night, with snow likely at times into Saturday. While exact totals remain uncertain, the timing favors accumulation, especially along higher elevations and untreated roads. Expect reduced visibility during heavier bursts and slower travel along Route 460 and nearby mountain roads.
This setup reflects a broader pattern across the eastern U.S. Cold air spilling south from a nearly half-frozen Great Lakes region continues feeding the Appalachians. That keeps temperatures cold enough for snow instead of rain, even with modest systems.
Conditions remain unsettled into Sunday, with lingering snow chances and cold daytime highs stuck in the teens. Plan extra travel time this weekend, keep winter supplies handy, and monitor updates as details sharpen.
Meteorologists continue tracking the system closely, and winter advisories may be issued as confidence grows. Heading out this weekend? Tell us what road conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Blacksburg, Virginia
- Today: Mostly cloudy, cold, highs near 27°
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, cold, highs near 27°
- Friday: Snow chances increase late, highs near 26°
- Saturday: Snow likely at times, very cold, highs near 16°
- Sunday: Cloudy, lingering snow chance, highs near 18°
