Virginia wakes up to one of the coldest mornings of the season as Arctic air locks in across the New River Valley. Stars shine sharply overhead, frost coats every surface, and engines strain to turn over. Temperatures sit near 7 degrees in Blacksburg, while wind chills plunge as low as 13 below zero, creating dangerous exposure risks.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. Very cold wind chills can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, wear insulated layers, and fully cover hands and faces. Pets should remain indoors until conditions improve.
Roads stay mostly dry, but extreme cold reduces tire pressure and stiffens vehicle components. Anyone traveling early should allow extra warm-up time and carry winter essentials. This is also peak season for flash freezing, when melting frost refreezes quickly in shaded areas.
Relief arrives later today as sunshine helps temperatures rebound into the mid-30s. Cold lingers into Tuesday morning, but the trend turns sharply warmer by afternoon. Highs reach the upper 40s, easing stress on pipes and people alike.
By Wednesday, a dramatic shift unfolds. Southerly flow pushes highs into the low 50s, melting remaining frost and dampening roads. Clouds increase late, setting up a chance of rain Thursday afternoon. Wet pavement could affect travel, especially if temperatures dip again after sunset.
Meteorologists say this pattern highlights December’s volatility in the Appalachians. Winter can arrive fast, retreat briefly, then reload with little warning as Christmas travel approaches.
Plan for extreme cold early today, then prepare for fast-changing conditions later this week.
Five-Day Outlook for Blacksburg, VA
• Today: Sunny, dangerously cold early. High near 35°F
• Tuesday: Sunny, milder. High near 47°F
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, warm. High near 51°F
• Thursday: Rain chance late. High near 53°F
• Friday: Cooler, clearing. High near 39°F
