CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – A winter storm is bringing freezing rain and icy conditions to central Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley, prompting the National Weather Service to issue an Ice Storm Warning and multiple Winter Weather Advisories through Wednesday night.

The National Weather Service has issued an Ice Storm Warning for parts of central Virginia, including Albemarle, Nelson, Greene, Madison, and Rappahannock counties, from 3 p.m. Wednesday through 4 a.m. Thursday. Ice accumulations of around one-quarter of an inch are expected, creating hazardous travel conditions, downed trees, and possible power outages.

Areas affected by the Ice Storm Warning: (3 p.m. Wednesday through 4 a.m. Thursday)

  • Albemarle County
  • Nelson County
  • Greene County
  • Madison County
  • Rappahannock County

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. Wednesday for the City of Charlottesville, Nelson, Greene, and Madison counties. Ice accumulation may cause slick roads and hazardous conditions.

Areas affected by the Winter Weather Advisory: (Until 7 p.m. Wednesday)

  • City of Charlottesville
  • Nelson County
  • Greene County
  • Madison County

A separate Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for the Shenandoah Valley and the Potomac Highlands from 3 p.m. Wednesday through 4 a.m. Thursday. Forecasters predict one to two-tenths of an inch of ice accumulation, which could cause slick roads and travel disruptions.

Areas affected by the Shenandoah Valley Winter Weather Advisory: (3 p.m. Wednesday through 4 a.m. Thursday)

  • Augusta County
  • Rockingham County
  • Shenandoah County
  • Frederick County
  • Page County
  • Warren County
  • Clarke County

Additional Weather Concerns

A slight winter storm threat is expected on Saturday, with freezing rain possible, which may further impact travel.

From Saturday through Sunday, moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast, increasing the risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and along rivers. Melting snow could contribute to mainstem river flooding from Sunday into Sunday night.

Additionally, isolated severe thunderstorms are possible Sunday afternoon, particularly south of Interstate 66, with the potential for damaging wind gusts.

Preparations

Residents in the affected areas should monitor weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel, and prepare for possible power outages. Ice accumulation could make road travel extremely dangerous, and those in flood-prone areas should be prepared for potential flash flooding over the weekend.