Snowshoe, West Virginia – Powerful mountain winds are expected to intensify Sunday morning across the high terrain of central West Virginia, creating hazardous conditions for travel and raising the risk of scattered power outages through late Sunday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 7 a.m. Sunday through 1 a.m. Monday for northwest Pocahontas and southeast Randolph counties. West winds will increase to 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph, especially along ridgelines and exposed slopes.
The strongest winds are expected to develop shortly after daybreak Sunday, with peak gusts likely late Sunday morning through Sunday evening. Communities including Snowshoe and Harman will be particularly vulnerable, where strong crosswinds may make driving difficult on mountain roads. Unsecured outdoor objects could be blown around, and weakened tree limbs may come down, leading to isolated power outages.
Winds are forecast to remain strong into Sunday night before gradually easing toward early Monday morning. Even after winds begin to diminish, lingering gusts may continue to impact higher elevations.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, use caution if traveling in high-profile vehicles, and stay alert for falling tree limbs. Additional wind advisories could be issued if gusts remain stronger or persist longer than expected.
