Charleston, WV – Heavy snow and wind gusts up to 50 mph are expected to make travel nearly impossible across much of West Virginia through 1 a.m. Tuesday, with whiteout conditions developing in higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect statewide until 1 a.m. Tuesday. Central, northeast and southeast counties — including Braxton, Clay, Nicholas, Webster, Pocahontas and Randolph — could see 5 to 12 inches of total snowfall, with locally higher amounts in the mountains. Wind gusts between 40 and 50 mph may bring down tree limbs and further reduce visibility.
Lower elevations across Kanawha, Putnam, Cabell, Logan, Boone, Harrison and surrounding counties are expected to receive an additional 3 to 6 inches. Even those totals will create slick highways, especially on bridges and overpasses. Cities including Charleston, Beckley, Elkins, Clarksburg and Summersville should prepare for snow-covered roads and slower emergency response times.
Whiteout conditions may develop during heavier bursts, particularly along higher ridges near Snowshoe and Richwood. Officials urge residents to delay travel if possible and prepare winter survival kits if driving is unavoidable. Check 511 for updated road conditions before heading out.
Snow and gusty winds will persist into early Tuesday, and additional advisories could follow if heavier bands redevelop.
