Charleston, West Virginia – Residents across West Virginia and the central Appalachians could face two rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms Wednesday, with damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes possible from late morning into the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a strong cold front moving across the region will trigger scattered thunderstorms beginning late Wednesday morning, followed by another round of storms during the late afternoon and evening hours. The Storm Prediction Center places much of West Virginia, northeast Kentucky, southeast Ohio, and parts of southwest Virginia under a Level 2 “Slight Risk” for severe weather.
Forecasters say the most intense storms could produce damaging wind gusts capable of downing tree limbs and power lines, along with large hail and a few tornadoes. Periods of locally heavy rainfall and frequent lightning may also accompany stronger storm cells.
Cities including Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, Beckley, and Clarksburg could see storms move through at multiple points Wednesday, particularly along major travel corridors such as I-64, I-77, and I-79. Sudden downpours and strong wind bursts may briefly reduce visibility for drivers during the afternoon and evening commute.
Residents should monitor weather alerts throughout Wednesday and ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings, including mobile alerts or NOAA Weather Radio. Additional watches or warnings could be issued as storms develop across the region.
