The first blast of December winter is expected to hit Virginia tonight, bringing freezing rain, sleet, and a layer of ice that could make travel dangerous by daylight Tuesday. Roads from Blacksburg to Roanoke and Wytheville are likely to get slick as temperatures linger around freezing throughout the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a Winter Weather Advisory is in force for much of southwest Virginia, northwest North Carolina, and southern West Virginia from 7 p.m. Monday to noon Tuesday. The system is forecast to produce up to a half-inch of snow and ice accumulations of around two-tenths of an inch, creating hazardous conditions on bridges, overpasses, and untreated highways.
Meteorologists predict the strongest freezing rain between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m. Tuesday, with temperatures gradually rising above freezing later in the day. “Even a thin glaze of ice can make travel dangerous,” forecasters said. Residents are encouraged to slow down, allow additional time, and avoid needless driving until Tuesday morning. Sidewalks and parking lots may also turn slick, particularly before dawn.
By Wednesday, the weather is expected to improve, with sunshine and high temperatures around 42°F. The next system arrives on Friday, bringing a fresh risk of snow or a rain-snow mix as colder air returns to the region. Expect another icy stretch into next weekend as early winter settles in across the Blue Ridge.
5-Day Outlook (Blacksburg, VA):
- Tuesday: Rain early, then clearing. High 42°F. Ice possible early.
- Wednesday: Sunny, calmer. High 42°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny. High 42°F.
- Friday: Rain or snow likely. High 34°F.
- Saturday: Cloudy, lingering flurries. High near 40°F.