Virginia Prepares for Icy ‘Glacier’ as Bitter Cold Approaches

This winter, Virginia faces another severe winter storm as conditions reminiscent of last year’s icy events return. A significant “glacier” storm is poised to impact the state, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Temperatures are expected to plunge, creating hazardous conditions across the region.

Weather Overview and Forecast

The upcoming weather patterns are driven by an upper-level low-pressure system moving through the southern U.S. This system pulls in moisture while a cold Arctic air mass pushes southward, resulting in wintry conditions from Texas up to New England.

Impacts Across Virginia

• Expect wintry precipitation across all areas of Virginia from Saturday evening to early Monday morning.
• Projected ice accretion totals indicate potential power outages, especially with accumulations exceeding ¼ inch.
• The storm is anticipated to result in travel disruptions with significant snow and ice buildup.

Governor Abigail Spanberger has declared a state of emergency ahead of the impending storm to facilitate resource mobilization for response efforts. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings encompassing the entire Virginia region.

Temperature Trends and Precipitation Types

Despite some areas, like Hampton Roads, experiencing brief warm-ups above freezing, most of Virginia will remain in the teens and 20s. The onset of precipitation will vary, initially falling as snow before transitioning to sleet and freezing rain.

• Snowfall: Expected to reach up to 10 inches north of a line from Wytheville to Richmond.
• Ice Accretion: Areas near the North Carolina border could see ice accumulations surpassing half an inch.
• Sleet: Anticipated to accumulate between 1-3 inches, contributing to overall winter precipitation totals.

Long-Term Forecast

With several days of extreme cold expected, the icy build-up could persist long into the week. Residents should prepare for potentially long-lasting power outages as tree limbs and power lines become vulnerable under accumulated ice.

Virginia’s current weather situation presents serious travel hazards and the likelihood of messy conditions throughout the state. Authorities urge citizens to stay informed and take precautionary measures as this winter storm unfolds.

For ongoing updates and weather information, keep an eye on Filmogaz.com.