Extreme cold warnings have expanded to include the Shenandoah Valley, the eastern West Virginia panhandle, and north-central Maryland as a strong Arctic cold front moves through. Almost all of Maryland and Northern Virginia are now included.
The Extreme Cold Warning is in effect from 4am Saturday through 10am Sunday, with dangerously cold wind chills around or below 10 degrees below zero. A High Wind Warning is also in effect from 4am to 7pm Saturday, with northwest winds of 20 to 30 mph and gusts up to 60 mph.
Wind chills are expected to remain below zero for at least 24 hours, from Saturday morning through late Sunday morning. The National Weather Service says life-threatening wind chills are likely Saturday into Saturday night, with wind chills of -5 to -15 degrees across the Baltimore and DC metro area and as low as -20 to -30 degrees in the mountains.
Damaging winds may bring down trees and power lines, leading to widespread power outages. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. Prolonged outdoor exposure during this period can be life-threatening, with a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
If possible, avoid being outside for extended periods, dress in layers, check on vulnerable neighbors, and prepare for potential power outages.
