Residents in Western Greenbrier County are being encouraged to prepare for dangerous conditions as an Extreme Cold Watch is issued from late Saturday night through Monday morning, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Blacksburg.
According to NWS meteorologists, wind chills could drop to 20 degrees below zero, affecting cities like Rainelle, Duo, and Quinwood. At these temperatures, frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, and continued exposure dramatically raises the risk of hypothermia.
The coldest period is forecast from Sunday afternoon until early Monday, when winds strengthen over the upper ridge tops and temperatures drop far below freezing. While snowfall is not included in this notice, forecasters warn that high wind chills alone will pose a significant risk to anyone who spends extended periods of time outside.
Emergency officials advise citizens to dress in layers, wear insulated gloves and facial coverings, and avoid needless travel during the hardest weather. Families are also advised to check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and others who have restricted heating options. Portable heaters should be used with caution and kept away from flammable materials, and fuel-burning devices such as generators or barbecues should never be used indoors owing to carbon monoxide hazards.
The National Weather Service will release additional updates when the Arctic air mass approaches the region.
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