Charleston, WV – Strong to severe thunderstorms could rapidly develop across West Virginia by mid to late afternoon, bringing the risk of damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes before sunset Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a cold front pushing through the Ohio Valley will interact with daytime heating to trigger scattered storms after 3 p.m., with peak intensity expected between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. A slight risk (level 2 of 5) is in place across much of the state, including Charleston, Huntington, Beckley, and Parkersburg.
Wind gusts could exceed 60 mph in stronger cells, with hail also a primary concern. While tornado risk remains low, it is not zero, particularly across northern West Virginia and nearby southeast Ohio.
Storms may track along major travel routes including I-64, I-77, and U.S. 35, where sudden downpours and debris could create hazardous driving conditions during the evening commute. Power outages are possible where stronger wind cores develop.
Residents should secure outdoor items, charge devices, and ensure multiple ways to receive warnings. When thunder roars, move indoors immediately.
Storms are expected to weaken quickly after sunset, but additional alerts may be issued if conditions intensify this afternoon.
