STERLING VA: (Rocktown Now) – A prolonged blast of Arctic air and powerful winds is creating life‑threatening conditions across portions of north‑central and western Maryland, northwest and western Virginia, and eastern West Virginia. An Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. Sunday.

Forecasters warn that wind chills will plunge to 10 degrees below zero in the valleys and 20 below zero along the ridges, making any time outdoors hazardous. At the same time, northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts reaching 50 to 60 mph, are expected to cause widespread damage.

Officials say the combination of bitter cold and high winds will likely bring down trees and power lines, leading to significant and widespread power outages. Travel may become difficult, particularly for high‑profile vehicles, and anyone exposed to the cold risks hypothermia in minutes.

Wind chills are expected to remain below zero through late Sunday morning, and authorities stress that extended time outdoors could be life‑threatening.

Safety Guidance From Emergency Officials
Residents are urged to remain on the lower levels of their homes during the strongest winds and stay away from windows. Falling limbs and debris may pose additional hazards.

Those who must go outside should dress in layers, including a hat, gloves, and a face covering. Pets should be kept indoors as much as possible, and outdoor animals must have warm, dry shelter, food, and unfrozen water.

Officials also encourage frequent check‑ins on older family members, neighbors, and friends. Portable heaters should be used with caution, and generators or grills must never be operated indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.

Anyone without heat or adequate shelter is urged to call 211 or visit their local county or city website for assistance locating warming centers or emergency housing.

Local Warming Centers in Harrisonburg/Rockingham County
Open Doors – Emergency Winter Shelter (Nov–Mar)
Rotating locations among local churches
Registration nightly 6:30–7:00 PM
Phone: 540‑578‑3869
Provides overnight shelter during extreme cold

Salvation Army – Emergency Shelter
185 Ashby Ave, Harrisonburg
Phone: 540‑433‑2785
Offers emergency beds and warming space depending on conditions

Mercy House
305 N. High St., Harrisonburg
Phone: 540‑432‑1812
Family‑focused shelter; may offer warming assistance during severe cold

People Helping People
65 Ott St., Harrisonburg
Phone: 540‑433‑7286
Resource hub that can direct individuals to active warming centers

211 Virginia – Statewide Warming Center Directory
Dial 2‑1‑1 anytime
Provides real‑time updates on warming centers across Virginia
Especially useful when temporary sites open during storms