Charleston, W.Va. – Residents across central and western West Virginia should brace for strong thunderstorms late Friday, with damaging winds posing the greatest threat through tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, scattered showers may form this afternoon ahead of an approaching cold front. Stronger, potentially severe storms are expected to move across Huntington, Charleston, and Parkersburg this evening into the overnight hours. The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of the region under a slight risk for severe weather, with wind gusts capable of downing trees and power lines.
Forecasters noted that while hail and isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out, high winds remain the primary hazard. Motorists should be alert for sudden downpours and debris on roadways, particularly along Interstates 64 and 77. Emergency officials urge residents to secure loose outdoor items and avoid unnecessary travel once storms begin.
The severe weather risk should ease after midnight, but showers and thunderstorms are likely to linger into Saturday. By early next week, a stretch of calmer, drier weather is expected to return across the Mountain State.
