Snowshoe, West Virginia – Snow and powerful wind gusts are creating hazardous travel conditions across the West Virginia highlands this morning, with slick roads and blowing snow expected to linger into the early afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 1 p.m. Thursday for portions of Pocahontas, Randolph, Webster, Upshur, Barbour, and Nicholas counties. Additional snowfall of up to two inches is possible, but strong winds are compounding the impacts. Gusts could reach 50 mph in the higher elevations near Snowshoe and Harman, with gusts up to 35 mph elsewhere.
The combination of fresh snow and strong winds is leading to blowing snow and rapidly changing visibility, especially along mountain routes such as WV-39, WV-55, U.S. 219, and secondary roads near Snowshoe Mountain, Elkins, Buckhannon, Richwood, and Webster Springs. Snow-covered pavement and drifting snow could make travel difficult through the late morning hours.
In the highest terrain of southeast Webster, northwest Pocahontas, and southeast Randolph counties, gusty winds may also bring down tree branches, increasing the risk of brief power disruptions and blocked roadways.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra braking distance, and remain alert for sudden drops in visibility. Conditions are expected to gradually improve after early afternoon as snow tapers and winds ease, but slick spots may persist on untreated roads. The advisory remains in effect through early afternoon, and motorists should continue checking 511 road updates before traveling.
