ROANOKE, Va. – Bitterly cold weather has arrived and a Weather Authority Alert Day is in effect through Wednesday. This alert comes as we brace for an Arctic air mass bringing bone-chilling temperatures and challenging wind chill values, coldest in the mountainous regions.
Understanding the Arctic weather dynamics
The primary concern right now is the plunging temperatures. Throughout the night, readings are expected to dive into the single digits. As Tuesday morning arrives, look for early lows ranging between 3-12 degrees, with wind chills (feel-like temperatures) below zero in the mountains.
While Monday brought plenty of sunshine, clouds are likely to thicken overnight due to a storm system advancing from the southwest. And mostly cloudy skies are on tap for Tuesday.
Forecast for the week ahead
Tuesday and Wednesday will likely remain in the grip of this frosty weather, with more sunshine expected on Wednesday. Late Tuesday into Tuesday night might bring a few flurries or light snow showers over the western facing slopes and our southeasternmost counties. Yes, Southside...you could see some snowflakes by Tuesday evening. However, most of the snow will stay south of here. Yes, south of here. Houston could see 2-5″ of snow, same with New Orleans. Savannah, Atlanta, Charleston, SC...these locations could even see and inch or two of snow. Crazy, huh?
There is a silver lining as the week progresses. The forecast suggests a gradual warming trend starting Thursday through Friday, offering some respite from the chill. Temperatures late week will reach the mid-to-upper 30s. Importantly, these days will also stay dry under partly to mostly sunny skies.
Weekend weather prospects
Looking towards the weekend, Saturday is expected to be dry, but keep an eye on late Sunday as there is a potential for a few rain and/or snow showers. And that chance for some rain/snow showers will linger into Monday. Temperatures this weekend will top out in the 30s and 40s. Stay updated on the latest weather changes as the weekend approaches.
Stay warm and prepared
In summary, make sure to dress warmly and exercise caution during this cold spell. For more weather updates and activities, visit WSLS.com. Also, feel free to share any pictures on Pin It at https://www.wsls.com/pinit/. Stay safe and keep warm!