West Virginia — A soft, mild breeze moves across the hills as January loosens its grip, at least for now. Pavement stays dry early, but clouds thicken with purpose, signaling a change that drivers and commuters will notice by later today.
Across central and southern West Virginia, temperatures climb well above early-January averages. Highs reach the lower to middle 50s for much of the region, with a few upper 50s possible near the Ohio River Valley. Charleston, Huntington, and Parkersburg all enjoy a brief midwinter warm-up that feels more like late March than early 2026.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, this mild pattern does not last quietly. Rain chances increase as the day wears on, especially from late morning into the afternoon. Some locations see only spotty showers, while others experience steadier rainfall by evening.
The timing matters for travel. Morning commutes remain mostly dry, but wet pavement becomes more likely during the afternoon drive home and into the evening hours. Visibility may drop at times during heavier showers, especially along winding mountain roads.
Winds remain light overall, which keeps temperatures comfortably mild tonight. Lows settle well above freezing, limiting any immediate winter travel threats. For now, no wintry precipitation is expected with this system.
Looking ahead into Wednesday and Thursday, conditions briefly quiet again. Clouds thin at times, and temperatures stay seasonably mild before another disturbance approaches later in the week. That system could bring a more unsettled pattern into the weekend, with cooler air returning behind it.
Drivers should still plan ahead today. Allow extra stopping distance on wet roads, and be cautious on shaded stretches where moisture can linger.
How warm did it feel where you are this morning? Are showers already moving in near your commute? Share what you’re seeing across your part of West Virginia.
