Elkins, WV – Mountain travel across central and northeast West Virginia could become treacherous within hours of snow developing late Saturday night, with up to 12 inches possible in the hardest-hit ridges before the Monday evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late Saturday night through Monday evening for a broad stretch of the state, including Clay, Braxton, Lewis, Upshur, Barbour, Nicholas, Webster, Pocahontas and Randolph counties. Forecasters say heavy lake-effect snow may drop 5 to 12 inches, with wind gusts reaching 40 mph and sharply reducing visibility in stronger snow bands.
Statewide impacts will center on higher terrain, where snow bands can quickly intensify. Communities such as Snowshoe, Marlinton, Richwood and Webster Springs could see rapid accumulation, while areas just a few miles away experience lighter snow. Roads near Elkins, Buckhannon and Weston may turn snow-covered overnight Sunday, especially on bridges and untreated secondary routes.
Blowing snow could create sudden whiteout conditions along portions of I-79 and mountain corridors near Holly River State Park and Canaan-adjacent highlands. The Monday morning and evening commutes face the greatest disruption.
Officials urge residents to delay non-essential travel, prepare for changing visibility within minutes and ensure vehicles are winter-ready. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued as snowfall bands organize heading into Sunday.
