Charleston, W.Va. – Temperatures are set to plunge to near 26°F by 1 a.m. Tuesday, putting crops, outdoor plumbing, and early-season vegetation at immediate risk across much of West Virginia.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Freeze Warning remains in effect from 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesday for most lowland areas, including Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, and Beckley, as well as parts of southeast Ohio, northeast Kentucky, and southwest Virginia. Overnight lows in the mid-20s to low-30s will create widespread frost and freeze conditions during the morning commute.
Road impacts remain limited, but exposed pipes and irrigation systems could freeze quickly before sunrise. Gardeners and farmers across Kanawha, Cabell, and Raleigh counties should cover or bring in sensitive plants immediately. Officials also urge residents to disconnect hoses and protect outdoor plumbing to prevent costly damage.
Another round of frost is likely late Tuesday night into early Wednesday, with temperatures again dipping into the 20s and low 30s before a warming trend begins by Wednesday afternoon. Highs will rebound into the 60s and low 70s by Thursday across the lowlands.
Dry air will dominate through the workweek, with afternoon humidity dropping into the 20% range. Combined with light winds, that will elevate fire danger statewide, especially during peak afternoon hours.
The next chance for rain arrives Friday night into Saturday, but until then, freeze warnings and elevated fire conditions remain a concern through midweek.
