Charleston, W.Va. – Slick roads are developing across the higher elevations of West Virginia early Tuesday, with freezing rain creating icy patches along I-64 and I-77 before 10 a.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, patches of freezing rain are expected through 10 a.m. Tuesday, mainly in the higher elevations of the West Virginia mountains and along the eastern slopes. Ice accumulations up to one-tenth of an inch are possible in localized areas, especially above 2,000 feet.
While Charleston and the lower Kanawha Valley may see mainly rain, drivers heading east on I-64 toward Beckley and into Raleigh County could encounter slick bridges and overpasses. Along I-77 from Charleston south toward Bluefield, elevated roadways may ice over briefly during lighter precipitation. US-60 and US-119 in the higher terrain are also at risk for spotty glazing.
Even a light glaze can make untreated roads hazardous. Mountain routes will be most susceptible, particularly where pavement temperatures remain near freezing. Power outages are not widespread, but isolated tree limb issues cannot be ruled out in areas where ice lingers.
Motorists traveling early this morning should reduce speeds, increase following distance and use caution on ramps and bridges. Allow extra time for the commute and check local road conditions before heading into higher elevations.
Temperatures are expected to gradually rise above freezing by late morning, changing any remaining freezing rain to plain rain and improving travel conditions. Additional advisories may be issued if colder air holds longer than expected.
