Charleston, West Virginia – A bitterly cold start to the day will give way to periods of light snow and a developing wintry mix across West Virginia and parts of southwest Virginia as the week begins.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, light snow showers or flurries are possible later today following a cold morning commute. Temperatures will remain cold, limiting melting and allowing any snow to accumulate lightly on untreated surfaces.
Conditions turn more complicated on Tuesday, as a warm front approaches the region. Forecasters indicate that a wintry mix of rain and snow is expected Tuesday afternoon, particularly across southern and western portions of West Virginia and into southwest Virginia. As temperatures fluctuate, precipitation may briefly change types before colder air returns.
By Tuesday night into Wednesday, the system is expected to transition to all snow, with light snow accumulations possible across much of the region. The National Weather Service also notes that light ice accumulation is possible in the mountains of southern West Virginia and southwest Virginia, where colder surface temperatures may linger.
Major travel corridors including Interstate 64 through Charleston and Huntington, I-77 near Beckley, I-79, and mountain routes such as US-460 and US-219 may experience slick conditions, especially during overnight and early morning hours. Bridges, overpasses, and higher-elevation roads are most susceptible.
While widespread heavy snow is not anticipated, the combination of snow, mixed precipitation, and cold temperatures may still create hazardous driving conditions, particularly during the Tuesday night and Wednesday morning commute.
Temperatures will remain cold enough to support lingering snow cover and refreezing, especially in areas that receive mixed precipitation earlier in the event.
Commuters, students, and long-distance travelers should plan for changing road conditions, allow extra travel time, and monitor local forecasts as the system evolves.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert for updated statements as timing and precipitation type become clearer.
