Blacksburg, VA – A beautiful stretch of fall weather is settling over southwest Virginia, offering mild afternoons, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures through midweek. However, as the week progresses, a cooler air mass will sweep through the region, bringing colder temperatures and the potential for frost by Friday morning.
Sunny Skies and Mild Temperatures for the Week Ahead
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, high pressure will maintain mostly clear skies throughout the week. Daytime highs will range from the upper 60s in the mountains to the upper 70s east of the Blue Ridge, making for ideal conditions to enjoy the outdoors. The fall stretch of weather is a welcome change after recent warm spells, offering an opportunity to savor the perfect autumn days.
However, the weather will begin to change by Thursday. A dry cold front is expected to move through the area tonight, lowering temperatures by 5 to 10 degrees. As a result, Thursday will be noticeably cooler, with highs struggling to reach the low 60s in some areas. This cool-down will set the stage for colder mornings later in the week.
Friday Morning to Bring the Coldest Temperatures of the Season So Far
Friday morning will likely bring the coldest temperatures of the season, with lows dipping into the mid-30s. According to the National Weather Service, patchy frost is possible, especially west of the Blue Ridge and in the New River and Greenbrier valleys. For those with outdoor plans, the chilly start will be a stark contrast to the mild afternoons that have marked the week.
While the morning frost may raise concerns for gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts, the weather will rebound nicely during the day. Afternoon highs on Friday are expected to reach the mid-60s under full sunshine, bringing some relief to the chill of the early morning.
What to Expect for the Weekend: Cooler and Windy
The forecast looks dry and quiet through early Sunday, with no significant weather changes expected until a cold front moves through late Sunday. The front will bring the next chance of scattered rain to the area. While rainfall amounts are expected to be light, residents should prepare for the possibility of gusty winds by Sunday afternoon.
By the end of the weekend, the weather will begin to shift once again, as temperatures cool further and the likelihood of rain increases. While it won’t be a major storm system, the change will remind residents that the fall season is in full swing, with cooler, unsettled weather to follow.
Preparing for the Cold: Protect Sensitive Plants
As the cooler air moves in, residents are advised to prepare for the possible frost on Friday morning. Gardeners, in particular, should take steps to protect sensitive plants, especially those near the Blue Ridge or in low-lying areas like the New River and Greenbrier valleys where frost is most likely to occur.
For the rest of the week, residents can enjoy the comfortable fall weather, with sunny skies and mild temperatures lasting until the end of the week. The pleasant conditions will provide an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities, so make the most of it before the cooler air deepens into the weekend.
Call to Action
How are you preparing for the cooler weather and possible frost this Friday morning? Share your tips and thoughts in the comments below.
