Snow, ice and fierce winds pummeled the country from the Midwest to the East Coast on Monday as a polar vortex, a large area of low-pressure cold air, dipped south, bringing with it the first major winter storm of 2025.
The Arctic surge tightened its grip on Charlottesville, dumping 4 to 6 inches of frosty fun, turning the University of Virginia into a winter wonderland. With most students still on break and January term classes moved online, the Grounds fell into an unusual quiet Monday morning.
Fourth-year students Mahika Patel and Mansi Patel bundled up, braving the elements to enjoy an unexpected snow day on the Lawn. The pair built a nearly perfect snowman, complete with a carrot nose.
More students made their way out into the cold to take advantage of the wintry weather as the day went on. From snowball fights on the Lawn to sledding by Shannon Library and on Nameless Field, Hoos experienced true snow-day spirit.
With cold air expected to remain in place for the next two weeks, temperatures will likely be below average throughout most of January for the eastern half of the country.
