Charleston, West Virginia – A powerful winter storm approaching the Kanawha Valley is expected to bring hazardous snow and ice conditions to the Charleston area beginning tonight, with travel expected to become very difficult through Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, forecast changes Saturday morning reflect a growing likelihood that snow will transition to a wintry mix late tonight into Sunday as a narrow corridor of warmer air moves into southern West Virginia. This shift is expected to reduce overall snowfall totals in Charleston but increase the risk of ice accumulation.
Forecasters warn that impacts may be more severe despite lower snow amounts. Heavy, wet snow combined with sleet and freezing rain can place additional strain on trees and power lines, increasing the likelihood of scattered to numerous power outages. Ice accretion is expected to be more pronounced across the southern coalfields and into the West Virginia foothills, including areas near Charleston.
While specific snowfall totals remain uncertain, the National Weather Service emphasized that slick roads and hazardous travel conditions are likely, especially Saturday night and throughout the day Sunday. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated secondary roads may become impassable as temperatures fluctuate near freezing.
Ice accumulation could make travel not only difficult but potentially impossible in some locations. Emergency officials urge residents to complete preparations immediately, avoid unnecessary travel, and plan for possible extended power outages.
Those most vulnerable include older adults, residents dependent on electrically powered medical equipment, and anyone required to travel during overnight or early-morning hours. Young workers and students commuting Sunday may face particularly dangerous conditions.
Uncertainty remains regarding how far north sleet and freezing rain will advance, but officials stress that even small changes in temperature could significantly affect local impacts.
The National Weather Service urges residents to monitor updates closely through the weekend as conditions evolve.
