Charleston, West Virginia – Snow could begin covering mountain highways by 6 a.m. Sunday, with a 30 to 50 percent chance that at least 2 inches accumulates across the central Appalachians before 6 a.m. Monday.
According to the National Weather Service, a developing winter system tracking east late Saturday night through Sunday night is expected to interact with colder air over the higher terrain, increasing the probability of accumulating snow from southern Ohio through West Virginia and into western Virginia. The highest confidence for 2 inches or more currently centers on Charleston, Beckley, Bluefield and stretches of the I-64 and I-77 corridors. Elevations above 2,000 feet could see locally higher totals if steady bands develop.
If moderate snowfall rates materialize during the Sunday morning travel window, visibility could drop below one mile, especially along mountain passes and exposed ridgelines. Bridges and elevated roadways, including sections of the West Virginia Turnpike, may become slick first as surface temperatures hover near freezing.
The West Virginia Division of Highways and Virginia Department of Transportation are monitoring pavement temperatures and staging crews ahead of potential impacts. Even small shifts in storm track could enhance snowfall totals along the eastern slopes.
Residents in higher elevations should prepare for slower travel, check tire tread and keep devices charged in case isolated power disruptions occur. Winter weather advisories may be issued by Saturday as confidence increases in snowfall placement and intensity through early Monday morning.
