Note: The Extreme Cold Warning has expired for the DC region. The most recent warning issuance before the expiration is below.
An Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect to 11 am Thursday, January 29, 2026 including the following jurisdictions.
VIRGINIA: western Highland.
WEST VIRGINIA: western Grant, western Pendleton.
Excerpted from the National Weather Service:
…EXTREME COLD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM EST THIS MORNING…
…COLD WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM THIS MORNING TO 11 AM EST FRIDAY…
WHAT…For the Extreme Cold Warning, dangerously cold wind chills as low as 25 below zero. For the Cold Weather Advisory, very cold wind chills as low as 15 below zero expected.
WHERE…In Virginia, Western Highland County. In West Virginia, Western Grant and Western Pendleton Counties.
WHEN…For the Extreme Cold Warning, until 11 AM EST this morning. For the Cold Weather Advisory, from 11 AM this morning to 11 AM EST Friday.
IMPACTS…The dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. An extended period of freezing temperatures could cause ruptured water pipes. Wind chill values can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure. Very cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Additional Cold Weather Headlines are expected at times through the end of the week as the region remains in an Arctic airmass.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside.
Keep pets indoors as much as possible.
Make sure outdoor animals have a warm, dry shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.
Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.