WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia residents should brace for a significant winter weather event as forecasters issue alerts for extreme cold and heavy snow across the region. The dangerous conditions are expected to begin late Saturday night and persist through midweek.
Extreme Cold Watch
- What: Dangerously cold wind chills as low as -15°F in the lowlands and -28°F in the northeast mountains.
- When: Late Sunday night through Wednesday morning for lowlands; through Thursday morning for the northeast mountains.
- Where: Statewide.
- Confidence: High.
- Impacts:
- Frostbite and hypothermia are likely if precautions are not taken.
- Exposure to these temperatures with unprotected skin could cause frostbite within minutes.
- Prolonged freezing temperatures may result in ruptured water pipes.
Winter Storm Watch
- What: Heavy snow possible, with accumulations of 4-7 inches. Wind gusts could reach 40 mph.
- When: Late Saturday night through Monday morning.
- Where: Northeast mountains and parts of northern and southeastern West Virginia.
- Confidence: Medium and increasing.
- Impacts:
- Travel could become hazardous, particularly during the Monday morning commute.
- Blowing snow and strong winds may lead to reduced visibility.
Preparation and Safety Tips
Officials urge residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their property:
- Wear layers and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite.
- Bring pets indoors and ensure livestock have adequate shelter.
- Insulate exposed water pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.
- Avoid travel during the storm if possible; keep an emergency kit in your vehicle if travel is necessary.
Monitoring the Weather
Stay updated on the latest forecasts and alerts from the National Weather Service and local news outlets. Emergency services remind residents to call 911 for life-threatening emergencies but to use non-emergency numbers for other concerns.
This winter storm and cold front could bring life-threatening conditions, so preparation is critical to ensuring safety during this severe weather event.
