Charleston, West Virginia – Drivers across West Virginia could face dangerous crosswinds within hours Friday morning as a strong weather system pushes through the region, producing wind gusts strong enough to topple trees and disrupt power.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Friday across much of the state. Sustained winds will increase through the morning, with southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph and gusts between 45 and 52 mph expected during the afternoon.
The strongest winds are likely across central and northern West Virginia, including Charleston, Parkersburg, Clarksburg, Elkins and Morgantown, where gusts could reach around 50 mph during the afternoon peak.
These winds may create hazardous travel along Interstate 64, Interstate 77 and Interstate 79, particularly for tractor-trailers, RVs and other high-profile vehicles. Forecasters warn that downed tree limbs and scattered power outages are possible as gusts intensify.
Temperatures Thursday remain cooler but quiet, with highs near 48°F in Charleston, 50°F in Huntington and 47°F in Parkersburg before the stronger winds arrive Friday.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture, trash bins and decorations before winds increase Friday morning.
Wind speeds are expected to ease later Friday night, though breezy conditions could continue into early Saturday as the storm system exits the Appalachian region.
