West Virginia wakes up under a sharp Winter chill Monday, with crisp air stinging faces and frost clinging to windshields across the Kanawha Valley. Temperatures near 24 degrees early created pockets of black ice on untreated roads, especially on bridges and shaded streets, just as school traffic returned after the holiday break.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, temperatures rebound quickly today, climbing into the mid-50s under sunshine. That early freeze followed by daytime thaw raises concern for slick pavement during the morning commute, particularly along I-64, I-77, and neighborhood side roads.
Charleston drivers should allow extra stopping distance through mid-morning. Melting frost can refreeze briefly in shaded areas, even as the sun comes out. Calm winds help conditions improve by late morning, to be fair, but caution still matters early.
This Weather pattern turns more active Tuesday. Clouds thicken, and rain chances increase by afternoon as temperatures surge into the low 60s. Wet pavement replaces ice, but visibility drops during heavier showers. Gusty winds may accompany passing rain Tuesday evening into early Wednesday.
By Wednesday, a mild January stretch settles in. Highs hold in the mid-50s with partial sun, followed by another warm jump Thursday into the mid-60s. Rain chances return late Thursday and grow Friday, when steadier rain could impact travel heading toward the weekend.
While snow is not expected locally, this rapid warm-to-cold cycle keeps flash freezing on the radar during clear nights. Winter Weather still controls the rhythm of daily travel across West Virginia.
More alerts may follow as rain coverage increases later this week. Traveling today? Watch for slick spots and share what conditions look like in your neighborhood.
Five Day Weather Outlook for Charleston, West Virginia
Monday: Mostly sunny, morning freeze near 24°, afternoon high near 56°
Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, rain developing after midday, high near 61°
Wednesday: Partly sunny and milder, high near 56°
Thursday: Partly sunny with rain chances late, high near 65°
Friday: Rain likely, breezy at times, high near 68°
