CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia’s first snow of the season will arrive late Sunday night as colder air rushes in behind a passing front, turning rain to snow and creating slick morning commutes Monday—especially in the mountains.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, rain showers will gradually change to snow between midnight and dawn Monday as temperatures fall below freezing. Most lowland locations, including Charleston, Huntington, and Parkersburg, may see a slushy coating to around an inch on grassy or elevated surfaces. Higher elevations of the Alleghenies, including Elkins, Snowshoe, and Summersville, are expected to pick up 2 to 4 inches of snow, with locally higher totals on ridgelines above 3,000 feet.
The NWS warns that brief heavy bursts could cause snow to stick on roads, particularly in the mountains, leading to slippery travel for the Monday morning commute. Drivers should plan for reduced visibility and allow extra time for travel on I-79, I-64, and U.S. 19 through the high country. Wind chills will fall into the 20s, adding a sharp bite to the first taste of winter weather.
Snow showers will continue on and off through Monday afternoon before tapering for most areas by evening, though flurries may linger across the higher terrain overnight. Conditions will dry out by Tuesday as skies clear and temperatures stay well below normal.
Residents are advised to dress warmly, check road conditions before traveling, and be cautious of slick bridges and overpasses early Monday.
