Winter Storm Warning Brings Less Snow Than Expected

Moderate to heavy snow still expected, but total accumulations reduced to 3-5 inches.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:31pm

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A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the region until 7 am Sunday, but the National Weather Service in Blacksburg has decreased the projected snow totals. Moderate to heavy snow is still expected, with total accumulations now between 3 and 5 inches, down from earlier forecasts. Winds could gust up to 45 mph, and an Extreme Cold Watch is also in effect with dangerously low wind chills possible.

Why it matters

Winter storms can significantly disrupt travel, power, and daily life in the region, so updated forecasts help residents and officials prepare accordingly. The reduced snow totals may mean less severe impacts, but the extreme cold is still a major concern.

The details

The National Weather Service has revised its snow forecast for the region, now calling for 3 to 5 inches of accumulation instead of the higher totals initially predicted. However, strong winds up to 45 mph are still expected, and an Extreme Cold Watch is in effect with wind chills potentially reaching 8 degrees below zero.

  • The Winter Storm Warning is in effect until 7 am on Sunday, January 31, 2026.
  • The Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from 7 pm on Saturday, January 30 to 10 am on Sunday, January 31.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related alerts and warnings.

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What’s next

Residents should continue to monitor weather reports and be prepared for hazardous winter conditions, including the potential for power outages and dangerous wind chills.

The takeaway

While the expected snow totals have been reduced, the region is still facing a significant winter storm with the potential for major disruptions. Staying informed and prepared will be crucial in the coming days.