Charleston, West Virginia – Heavy snow is intensifying across central and northern West Virginia this afternoon, setting up a prolonged period of dangerous travel as a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through Sunday afternoon.
Snow is steadily overspreading Kanawha, Putnam, Roane, Clay, and Nicholas counties, with total accumulations of 4 to 7 inches expected by Sunday afternoon. Charleston, South Charleston, Saint Albans, Hurricane, and Teays Valley will all see significant impacts. Across northern counties including Harrison, Taylor, Lewis, Gilmer, and Wood, snowfall totals may climb to 5 to 8 inches, making roads increasingly difficult to navigate.
According to the National Weather Service office in Charleston, the warning remains in effect until 1 p.m. Sunday for much of central and western West Virginia, as well as southeast Ohio. In the higher terrain of Upshur, Randolph, Webster, and Pocahontas counties, snowfall will persist longer, with totals of 5 to 9 inches possible and the warning extended through early Monday morning. Snowfall rates may be heavy at times, especially overnight, sharply reducing visibility.
West Virginia Division of Highways crews are treating major corridors including I-64, I-77, U.S. 35, and U.S. 119, but snow-covered lanes, slick bridges, and snow-packed secondary roads are expected to persist. According to emergency management officials, travel could become very difficult, particularly overnight and Sunday morning.
Residents are strongly urged to delay all non-essential travel. Those who must be on the roads should drive slowly, allow extra stopping distance, and carry winter survival supplies including food, water, blankets, and a flashlight. Updated road conditions are available by dialing 511.
Snow will gradually taper Sunday afternoon for lowland areas, but hazardous conditions may linger well into the day. In the mountains, snow is expected to continue through Sunday night.
