TANGIER, VIRGINIA — As residents of this small island community dig out from last weekend’s devastating winter storm, the National Weather Service in Wakefield is forecasting another bout of wintry weather this weekend, with snow chances increasing Friday night into Saturday, Jan. 29-30.
According to the latest forecast from NWS Wakefield, Tangier can expect mostly sunny but bitterly cold conditions through midweek, with high temperatures struggling to reach the upper 20s. The island will see sunny skies today with a high near 33 degrees, accompanied by breezy southwest winds gusting up to 23 mph. Tonight will bring partly cloudy skies with temperatures dropping to around 22 degrees.
The coldest stretch is expected Wednesday through Friday, with daytime highs only reaching the mid-to-upper 20s and overnight lows in the upper teens. Northwest winds will make it feel even colder, with blustery conditions persisting through much of the week.
Weekend Storm Approaching
The weather pattern becomes more active heading into the weekend. A slight chance of snow is forecast for Wednesday night, with better chances developing Friday night into Saturday. The National Weather Service indicates a 30% chance of snow Friday after 1 a.m., increasing to 50% on Saturday. The forecast calls for cloudy skies Saturday with a high near 25 degrees and windy conditions. Snow chances continue Saturday night at 60% before tapering off Sunday.
While specific snow accumulation amounts have not yet been issued for this system, forecasters note that it will bring another round of winter weather to the region still recovering from the January 24-25 storm that brought catastrophic ice accumulation across Virginia.
Community Still Recovering from Historic Ice Storm
The timing of this weekend’s system comes as the Eastern Shore continues recovery efforts from last weekend’s major ice event. That storm prompted Governor Abigail Spanberger to declare a state of emergency and warn residents of “catastrophic” conditions. The National Weather Service issued Winter Storm Warnings for the entire state, and federal emergency declarations were approved with FEMA representatives deployed to assist.
The January 24-25 storm brought significant snow that transitioned to sleet and freezing rain across much of Virginia, causing widespread power outages, dangerous road conditions, and extensive damage from ice accumulation.
Heroic Rescue Amid Harsh Conditions
The frigid conditions created by the storm led to a dramatic rescue operation Tuesday morning, Jan. 27, on the Eastern Shore that highlighted both the dangers of the weather and the dedication of local first responders.
Emergency responders carried out a courageous and carefully coordinated rescue, saving a stranded dog that had become trapped on ice in Chesconessex Creek off Northside Road.
At approximately 8:08 a.m., the Eastern Shore of Virginia 911 Center received a call reporting that a dog had wandered onto the frozen creek, fallen into the water, and become unable to escape. With freezing temperatures, unstable ice, and strong winds creating dangerous conditions, the situation quickly became life-threatening for the animal.
Station 9 was immediately contacted, and fire and EMS units rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, responders saw the dog struggling in the icy water, clinging to broken ice as it fought to stay afloat. Knowing that every minute mattered, crews began planning a rescue that would protect both the animal and the responders.
One firefighter volunteered to enter the hazardous conditions and was fitted with a cold-water ice rescue suit. Using an inflatable raft, the rescuer bravely pushed across the frozen surface, navigating jagged ice and gusting winds to reach the stranded dog.
After carefully approaching the animal, the rescuer lifted the beagle and hound mix from the freezing water and secured it on the raft. The pair were then guided safely back to shore, where other crew members were waiting to provide assistance.
Once on land, the dog was turned over to Accomack County Animal Control and taken for treatment. The animal is being treated for hypothermia and minor injuries to its paws caused by sharp ice and is expected to recover.
Officials expressed deep appreciation for the responders’ selfless actions and professionalism.
“We are grateful that the situation ended safely, not only for the dog but also for the responders, who are not frequently tasked with this type of emergency,” officials said.
The successful rescue was made possible through teamwork and dedication from the Accomack County Department of Public Safety, the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office, and the Virginia Marine Resource Commission.
The incident highlighted the bravery of local first responders, who put themselves in harm’s way to save a life. Their swift actions and unwavering commitment turned a dangerous emergency into a powerful example of heroism and community service.
Preparing for the Weekend
With another winter weather system approaching, residents across the Eastern Shore are being urged to monitor the latest forecasts and prepare accordingly. The National Weather Service recommends:
- Keeping emergency supplies stocked, including food, water, flashlights, and batteries
- Ensuring adequate heating fuel and blankets are available
- Charging cell phones and electronic devices
- Avoiding unnecessary travel during winter weather events
- Checking on elderly neighbors and vulnerable community members
The latest forecast information can be found at weather.gov/akq or by monitoring NOAA Weather Radio. Residents are encouraged to check the forecast frequently as the weekend approaches, as snow accumulation forecasts will become more specific in the coming days.
For the latest weather information for Tangier and the Eastern Shore, visit the National Weather Service Wakefield office at weather.gov/akq. To learn more about the Onancock Volunteer Fire Department and their services, visit their website or social media pages. For animal control services, contact Accomack County Animal Control at their administrative offices.
Tangier Island, Virginia 