Virginia Faces Major Winter Storm with Significant Snow and Ice Accumulation
A winter storm is expected to affect Virginia tonight through Monday evening, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Accumulations of up to 9 inches are possible in certain areas, with icy conditions expected to persist into the following week. Residents should prepare for hazardous travel and potential power outages.
Richmond, Virginia is anticipating a significant winter storm beginning this evening and continuing through Monday evening. The day will start with sunny skies, transitioning to increased cloudiness as temperatures soar into the upper 30s and lower 40s. A winter storm warning is in effect for much of the state, with a winter weather advisory for southern regions. The storm will commence with snow, likely transitioning to sleet in the metropolitan areas, while northern regions may experience more persistent snowfall.
As the storm progresses, snow and sleet will mix, evolving into freezing rain across metro Richmond and points south. The switch to plain rain is predicted for late morning on Monday, while northern locations will continue to see mixed precipitation. Colder air will return in the latter part of the day, resulting in a transition back to snow, alongside accumulation expected in the afternoon and evening. Initial snow fall may be reduced by rain but further snow accumulation is anticipated by Monday night.
In the Richmond area and Tri-Cities, snow accumulation is estimated to be between 1 and 3 inches. Locations north of Richmond could exceed 3 inches, with specific areas potentially surpassing 6 inches, particularly in far northern and northwestern Virginia. While precise snow accumulation figures may fluctuate, the impact of varying winter precipitation types should be emphasized. Additionally, icy conditions from freezing rain may lead to hazardous travel and power outages, as untreated surfaces could become very slippery.
Temperatures will decline rapidly post-storm, creating very icy conditions overnight into Tuesday morning. In the aftermath, cold weather is expected to persist through the week with highs in the low to mid-30s and overnight lows in the single digits and teens, ensuring icy conditions linger due to refreezing overnight.
Virginians are advised to prepare for severe winter weather and its associated dangers. Individuals are urged to stay alert to weather updates through the CBS 6 Weather Authority and to exercise caution on untreated surfaces during and following the storm.
The impending winter storm in Virginia is expected to have significant adverse effects, prompting weather warnings and advisories across the state. Understanding the weather patterns that lead to such storms is crucial for public safety. Typically, winter storms in this region can bring about various forms of precipitation including snow, sleet, and freezing rain, which can result in hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and safety risks due to icy walkways. The information about the storm’s progression, expected accumulations, and associated risks is essential in preparing residents.
In summary, Virginia is bracing for a major winter storm that will impact travel and safety from this evening through Tuesday morning. Residents should prepare for a range of winter precipitation including snow, sleet, and freezing rain, leading to icy conditions and potential power outages. Forecasts indicate significant snow accumulation in various regions, with especially hazardous conditions expected overnight. Following the storm, cold temperatures will ensure that icy conditions persist, necessitating caution in the coming days.
Original Source: www.wtvr.com
