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Virginia Reels From Deep Freeze & Snow Chaos
29 Jan
Summary
- Staunton and Augusta County are still digging out from a major snow and ice storm.
- Extreme cold with wind chills as low as -9 degrees poses hypothermia risks.
- Another storm is possible this weekend, threatening further travel disruptions.
Virginia continues to grapple with the aftermath of a significant winter storm that blanketed Staunton, Augusta County, and Waynesboro with 7-8 inches of snow and ice last weekend. Residents are facing challenges clearing roads and driveways as the snow has solidified due to extreme cold. Schools remained closed through Wednesday.
A National Weather Service cold weather advisory is in effect, warning of wind chills as low as -9 degrees Fahrenheit, increasing the risk of hypothermia and frostbite for unprotected skin. The persistent subfreezing temperatures, expected to last until mid-February, along with the possibility of additional snow this weekend, are raising concerns about escalating energy costs and the potential for frozen pipes.
Forecasters are monitoring a developing storm system along the Gulf Coast, which could bring precipitation to the Southeast by Friday and move north over the weekend. While the exact snowfall for Augusta County remains uncertain, there is a possibility of 1-2 inches in Staunton on Saturday. Even a weaker storm could cause hazardous travel conditions due to the entrenched cold and icy roads.
