Charleston, WV – A brief warmup across Charleston Tuesday afternoon is creating new travel concerns as temperatures fluctuate sharply and moisture refreezes on city roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a warm front moving through the region is pushing temperatures above normal Tuesday, allowing snow and ice to melt on roads, parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways. Forecasters warn that once temperatures fall again Tuesday night, the runoff is expected to refreeze, creating areas of black ice across the city.
The most hazardous travel conditions are expected during the evening and overnight hours, especially on untreated roads, bridges, hills, and shaded areas. Drivers are urged to slow down and allow extra stopping distance, while pedestrians should use caution when walking outdoors.
A cold front will move through the area late Tuesday afternoon into the evening, bringing light rain before colder air returns overnight. By Wednesday, conditions will turn colder and drier, with gusty northwest winds developing. Upslope snow showers are possible in higher elevations east of the city, though significant accumulation is not expected in Charleston.
The warming trend also raises concerns for localized flooding and ice jams. As snowpack melts and rain enters rivers and streams, water levels may rise quickly. Officials caution that ice jams can form or break apart with little warning, potentially causing rapid flooding both upstream and downstream.
High pressure is expected to build in later this week, bringing dry weather Thursday and Friday, though temperatures will remain below seasonal averages. Another weather system arriving this weekend could bring rain and milder air, with the possibility of a brief wintry mix early in the event.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts, stay alert for changing road conditions, and check river levels if living near waterways.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
