Dangerously Cold Weather Grips the Region Through Midweek

Get ready for some of the coldest weather this winter as Arctic air grips our area. Wind chills are expected to plunge to dangerous levels, prompting the region’s advisories.

What to Expect

• Cold Weather Advisory:
  • In effect from 7 p.m. tonight to 10 a.m. Tuesday and 10 p.m. Tuesday to 10 a.m. Thursday.
  • Wind chills as low as -10°F could make outdoor exposure hazardous.
• Tuesday Snow Chances:
  Light snow flurries or isolated snow showers are possible on Tuesday afternoon and evening, especially west of I-81. While accumulation is expected to be minimal, any snow could make roads slick due to the bitterly cold temperatures.
• Temperatures:
  20–30 degrees below normal through Thursday. Even as temperatures start to moderate later this week, highs will struggle to rise above the 20s and 30s.

Stay Safe in the Cold

With frostbite and hypothermia risks at these temperatures, here’s how to protect yourself:

• Dress Warmly: Wear layers, including gloves, a hat, and a face covering if you need to go outside.
• Protect Pipes: Allow water to drip slowly to prevent freezing, and insulate outdoor pipes.
• Check on Neighbors: Older adults, young children, and those without proper heating are especially vulnerable.
• Keep Pets Safe: Bring them indoors or provide warm shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
• Use Heating Equipment Safely: Avoid using generators or grills indoors and follow instructions for portable heaters.

This extreme cold is no joke—wind chills as low as -10°F can cause frostbite in as little as 30 minutes. Stay inside when possible, drive carefully, and prepare for icy conditions throughout the week.

Keep following Potomac Local News for updates as this cold snap unfolds.