CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Snowflakes danced in the pre-dawn glow across Charleston and the Kanawha Valley Tuesday morning, coating grassy hillsides and slicking bridges before sunrise. The first real taste of early-season winter weather greeted Veterans Day with icy pavement, low visibility, and a noticeable bite in the air — a clear reminder that November has shifted gears.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through 7 a.m. for portions of central and southern West Virginia, eastern Kentucky, and southwest Virginia. Moderate to heavy snow showers are tapering off, but brief bursts continue along Interstates 77, 64, and 79, especially through Fayette, Raleigh, and Nicholas counties. Up to an inch of accumulation is possible, with icy bridges and overpasses refreezing where slush remains.
Drivers should expect changing pavement conditions through mid-morning and slow down on shaded stretches. “This is that tricky kind of snow,” forecasters said, “where the surface looks wet but hides ice underneath.” Temperatures in the low 20s at dawn will rebound to near 40 by afternoon as clouds gradually clear. Sunshine returns midweek with a quick warm-up — highs near 60 by Friday — though mornings will stay crisp under mostly clear skies.
As the region enters the late-fall transition, residents are urged to winterize vehicles, protect outdoor spigots, and check travel routes before early Thanksgiving trips. The pattern remains calm through the weekend, but colder air and renewed snow chances could arrive again before next week’s holiday rush.
Five-Day Forecast for Charleston, WV:
Tue: 42/22 – Snow showers early; clearing; cold morning roads.
Wed: 57/32 – Sunny; milder afternoon; light wind.
Thu: 55/32 – Bright skies; calm and cool.
Fri: 60/42 – Sunny; pleasant; good for outdoor prep.
Sat: 58/41 – Increasing clouds; light rain possible late.
