Extreme Cold Freezes Virginia Beach Fountain

Frigid temperatures turn fountain into icy sculpture as winter storm slams Southeast.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 6:55pm

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A winter storm has brought extreme cold to Virginia Beach, causing a local fountain to completely freeze over. Millions across the Southeast are under weather alerts as the storm is expected to intensify into a powerful bomb cyclone, bringing tropical storm-force winds to the region.

Why it matters

The deep freeze in Virginia Beach is a dramatic visual representation of the severe winter weather impacting the Southeast. As climate change brings more extreme weather events, scenes like this frozen fountain highlight the need for communities to prepare for the impacts of these powerful storms.

The details

Temperatures in Virginia Beach have plummeted well below freezing, causing a local fountain to become completely encased in ice. CNN meteorologist Derek Van Dam reported live from the scene, showcasing the icy sculpture that has formed as a result of the extreme cold.

  • The winter storm hit the Southeast on January 31, 2026.

The players

Derek Van Dam

A CNN meteorologist reporting live from the scene in Virginia Beach.

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What they’re saying

“Millions across the Southeast are under extreme weather alerts as this winter storm is expected to turn into a bomb cyclone, bringing tropical storm-force wind gusts to the region.”

— Derek Van Dam, CNN Meteorologist

What’s next

Forecasters are warning residents across the Southeast to prepare for dangerous winter weather conditions, including the potential for power outages, road closures, and other disruptions as the storm intensifies.

The takeaway

This frozen fountain in Virginia Beach serves as a powerful visual reminder of the extreme weather events driven by climate change that communities across the country must be prepared to face in the years ahead.