Charleston, West Virginia – Warm, mostly dry weather will dominate West Virginia through the weekend before a more active pattern arrives Monday, bringing the potential for multiple rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms capable of damaging winds and locally heavy rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, highs this weekend will reach the mid to upper 80s across the lowlands, while only isolated afternoon showers or thunderstorms are expected, mainly along the mountains. Most communities, including Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg and Beckley, should experience long stretches of dry weather through Sunday.
Attention then shifts to Monday as an unsettled weather pattern moves into the Ohio Valley. Forecasters say multiple rounds of thunderstorms are possible, with the first arriving as early as Monday morning, primarily affecting southeastern Ohio before weakening as it pushes south. A second round is expected to develop Monday afternoon into Monday evening, bringing the greatest threat to much of West Virginia.
According to the National Weather Service, the primary hazards include damaging wind gusts and locally heavy rainfall that could produce isolated flash flooding. A Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather covers portions of western and northern West Virginia, including areas near Huntington, Parkersburg and Athens, Ohio, while much of central and southern West Virginia remains under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5).
Forecast confidence remains lower than normal regarding the exact timing and placement of the strongest storms. Residents should monitor updated forecasts through the weekend, especially if they have outdoor plans Monday.
Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, secure loose outdoor items before storms arrive, and be prepared to move indoors quickly if severe thunderstorm warnings are issued. Conditions are expected to improve by Wednesday, though additional forecast updates and watches may be issued as confidence increases over the next couple of days.
