Charleston, WV – A sharp blast of winter cold is expected to sweep across West Virginia beginning November 25, raising the risk of frostbite and hypothermia as families prepare for Thanksgiving travel and seasonal activities. Forecast data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates that a major temperature drop will affect much of Appalachia and the Mid-Atlantic through early December, with below-normal temperatures increasingly likely during the holiday week.
NOAA’s Updated Climate Outlook for Late November
NOAA’s November 19 climate projection points to a substantial pattern shift driven by several overlapping atmospheric factors. The combination of La Niña, the Madden–Julian Oscillation, and a potential late-November sudden stratospheric warming event could steer Arctic air masses directly into the eastern United States. This pattern places West Virginia at the center of the colder-than-usual zone during a time typically associated with busy travel and outdoor gatherings.
Meteorologists note that sudden stratospheric warming events are uncommon this late in the year, and when they occur, they can significantly alter jet-stream flow, sending frigid air into the lower 48 states.
How the Temperature Drop Could Impact West Virginia
The expected cold surge may be felt most strongly in the state’s higher elevations, where wind chill values can fall rapidly below freezing. Communities in Pocahontas, Randolph, Tucker, and Preston counties are particularly vulnerable due to their terrain and elevation.
For residents planning to hunt, hike, shop, or travel long distances for Thanksgiving, understanding how quickly frostbite can occur is essential. Even a short period of exposure to strong winds and near-freezing temperatures can be enough to trigger early symptoms.
Recognising the Early Warning Signs of Frostbite
Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze. It can progress silently, so early detection is vital. Common symptoms include:
- Numbness or loss of feeling in affected areas
- Tingling or prickling sensations
- Cold, hard, or waxy-looking skin
- Skin colour changes such as red, white, blue, grey, or purple
- Blistering after rewarming in more advanced cases
Health officials caution that fingers, toes, ears, and the nose are the first areas to be affected. Children, older adults, and individuals with poor circulation are at higher risk.
Understanding Hypothermia and Its Dangers
Hypothermia sets in when the body’s core temperature drops too low to sustain normal functions. The signs can start subtly and quickly become life-threatening. Key indicators include:
- Shivering and slurred speech
- Shallow breathing and a weak pulse
- Confusion, memory loss, and severe fatigue
- Stumbling, drowsiness, or in severe cases, unconsciousness
- Infants may show bright red, cold skin and low energy
NOAA’s guidance, referenced in its late-November outlook, emphasises that anyone displaying these symptoms requires immediate medical care. Rapid warming using warm (not hot) water or gentle body heat can help stabilise a person until professional help is available.
Safety Measures for the Holiday Week
With thousands of residents expected to travel for Thanksgiving celebrations, local officials encourage heightened awareness. Wearing layered clothing, keeping extremities covered, and avoiding extended outdoor exposure during the coldest periods can significantly reduce risk.
Residents working outdoors, especially during hunting season or early-morning travel, should check weather updates frequently and keep emergency supplies in vehicles.
What This Means for West Virginia
A colder-than-average Thanksgiving week could strain local resources and affect travel, outdoor work schedules, and holiday events. However, early preparation can help avoid weather-related medical emergencies. Residents are encouraged to monitor NOAA updates and stay aware of rapid shifts in wind chill, particularly overnight and in mountainous terrain.
As the holiday week approaches, staying alert to these risks can help families enjoy the season safely.
What do you think of this developing cold pattern? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
