West Virginia – The air bites exposed skin, car doors creak open, and steam rises fast from the Kanawha River as dangerous cold settles across central Appalachia this morning. Temperatures sit in the teens, but the wind makes it feel far worse, creating a real risk for anyone outdoors without protection.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until 1 p.m. Wind chills as low as 14 below zero are expected across parts of central and southern West Virginia, including Kanawha, Putnam, Boone, and Fayette counties. Even brief exposure can lead to frostbite or hypothermia.
In Charleston, readings hover near 14 degrees with gusty northwest winds. A few flurries may drift through the morning, though little accumulation is expected. The bigger issue is flash freezing. Any melted snow or damp pavement can refreeze quickly, creating slick conditions on I-64, I-77, and local bridges. Drivers should slow down, especially on shaded roads.
Cold holds through tonight, with lows near 7 degrees under mostly clear skies. Conditions improve gradually Sunday as sunshine returns, but highs stay in the mid-20s. Calm winds will help, though the cold still lingers in the morning hours.
A major pattern shift arrives Monday. Highs jump into the low 40s, starting a steady thaw that builds into midweek. By Tuesday, temperatures push into the mid-50s, flipping precipitation from snow to rain. That thaw may stress creeks and drains clogged by ice, so localized water issues remain possible.
Looking ahead, above-normal temperatures appear likely into late next week, hinting at early signs of spring despite frozen ground. For now, limit time outside, cover exposed skin, and check on vulnerable neighbors. How cold did it feel where you live today?
Five-Day Outlook for Charleston, West Virginia
- Today: Mostly sunny. Chance of flurries early. High near 21.
- Tonight: Mostly clear. Low near 7.
- Sunday: Partly sunny. High near 25.
- Monday: Partly sunny and milder. High near 42.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High near 55.
