Prolonged Cold Temperatures in Southwest Virginia, Northwest
North Carolina, and Southeast West Virginia Tonight through Sunday
Night...
Very cold air will remain over the area through this weekend. Lows
tonight, Saturday night and Sunday night will be mainly in the
single digits in the mountains and in the teens in the foothills and
piedmont. Daytime temperatures Saturday will only be in the teens in
the mountains and the mid 20s to around 30 in the foothills and
piedmont. Temperatures begin to moderate on Sunday with highs in the
20s in the mountains and 30s in the foothills and piedmont, which
still means the average temperature for the day will be 10 to 20
degrees below normal.
In addition to the actual air temperatures, the wind will be gusty
until Sunday afternoon, especially at higher elevations and during
daytime hours. This will result in wind chills from -5 to -20 in the
mountains and in the single digits east of the Blue Ridge.
Data suggests that when the average daily air temperature remains at
least 12 degrees below normal for at least 48 hours, significant
impacts to infrastructure may occur. This includes frozen water
pipes and frozen sprinkler systems.
Take steps now to protect yourself and your property from the
extreme cold. If you go outside, wear several layers of loose
fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy
clothing. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear a hat and cover your
mouth with a scarf.
If driving, keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank
and fuel lines. Check your antifreeze and windshield washer fluid
levels. Be sure to carry a fully charged cell phone. The latest road
conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by
calling 5 1 1.
If you have pets or farm animals, make sure they have plenty of food
and water, and are not overly exposed to extreme cold.