Charleston, WV – Residents in the high terrain of eastern West Virginia are urged to prepare for dangerously cold conditions as an Extreme Cold Warning takes effect early Sunday and continues into Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, the warning is in effect from 4 a.m. Sunday until 10 a.m. Monday for northwest Pocahontas County and southeast Randolph County, including the communities of Snowshoe and Harman.
Forecasters warn that wind chill values could drop as low as −21 to −25 degrees, creating a serious risk of frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Prolonged exposure may also lead to hypothermia, even with limited time outdoors.
The extended stretch of bitter cold could also result in frozen or ruptured water pipes, especially in homes with exposed plumbing or inadequate insulation. Mountain communities, where temperatures are typically colder and winds stronger, are expected to see the most severe impacts.
Officials strongly encourage residents to limit outdoor activity, dress in multiple layers, and ensure all exposed skin is covered if venturing outside. Outdoor pets should be brought indoors, and residents are advised to check heating systems ahead of the coldest period.
Those living in or traveling through higher elevations, including ski resort areas, should be prepared for extreme cold conditions and rapidly changing weather.
Temperatures are expected to gradually improve later Monday, but residents are urged to remain cautious until wind chills rise above dangerous levels.
