West Virginia wakes up to damp pavement and cooling air as winter begins asserting itself across the region. Light rain, low clouds, and a fading breeze set the stage early, but sharper cold presses in fast. By the time many head out later today, jackets feel lighter than the air itself, and the warmth of earlier in the week is gone.
According to the National Weather Service, a strong push of colder air will lower highs into the 40s today, then drive temperatures below freezing by Thursday night. Rain is expected to mix with snow in higher elevations this evening, with snow chances increasing statewide by Friday as colder air deepens.
Across the Kanawha Valley, Charleston faces a slippery transition. Rain is likely through today, then flips to a rain-and-snow mix tonight. Light accumulations remain possible, especially north and east of the city. Highs drop into the upper 20s Thursday, with overnight lows falling into the teens. Any moisture left on roads may refreeze quickly.
Drivers should plan extra time Friday morning. Bridges, ramps, and untreated side streets could glaze over, especially before sunrise. Flash freezing becomes a real concern as daytime melting gives way to sharply colder nights.
Looking ahead, winter stays active. Snow chances return Friday afternoon and linger into Saturday, when highs struggle to reach the mid-30s. More cold air next week may bring additional precipitation risks across the Mid-Atlantic.
Five Day Forecast for Charleston, West Virginia
Thursday: Chance of snow, mainly before evening. High near 27.
Friday: Snow chances develop by afternoon. High near 40.
Saturday: Snow likely early. High near 36.
Sunday: Partly sunny and colder. High near 27.
Monday: Mostly cloudy, very cold. High near 31.
