Wakefield, Virginia – A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Saturday afternoon through Monday afternoon for much of eastern and central Virginia, with confidence increasing in a high-impact winter storm producing snow, sleet, and freezing rain.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, widespread mixed precipitation is expected across southeast Maryland, northeast North Carolina, and large portions of Virginia, including central, eastern, south-central, and southeast regions. Forecasters warn the combination of snow and ice could result in major disruptions to transportation and infrastructure.
Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, are expected to become slick and hazardous as precipitation develops. Significant ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and potentially long-lasting power outages, particularly in eastern and southeastern Virginia.
The watch includes major population centers across Hampton Roads, the Richmond metro area, the Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula, Southside Virginia, and parts of northeast North Carolina. While exact precipitation amounts remain uncertain, officials emphasize that even small shifts in temperature could significantly affect ice accumulation and impacts.
The winter weather is expected to begin Saturday afternoon, intensify at times through Sunday, and persist into Monday afternoon. Hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute across much of the region.
Residents are urged to closely monitor forecast updates as details become clearer. Officials recommend preparing now for possible power outages by charging electronic devices, securing essential supplies, and planning to limit travel during the most hazardous periods.
Motorists who must travel are advised to use extreme caution, particularly overnight and during early morning hours. Communities across the Mid-Atlantic should be prepared for prolonged and potentially severe winter weather impacts.
