West Virginia – Frost coats windshields, breath hangs in the air, and pavement feels brittle underfoot this morning. Winter has tightened its grip across the Mountain State, and the cold is not letting go as the weekend approaches.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, temperatures remain locked below freezing early today, with readings near 9 degrees at Yeager Airport before sunrise. Calm winds help for now, but prolonged cold raises the risk of hypothermia and frozen pipes. Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Across West Virginia, the cold snap sets the stage for a developing storm pattern late Friday into Saturday. A strengthening system tracking out of the southern Plains is expected to spread snow into parts of the Ohio and Tennessee valleys, with light accumulations possible locally. Even small bursts of snow could create slick travel as melted snow refreezes quickly.
In Charleston and along the Kanawha Valley, skies turn brighter later today with sunshine returning, but temperatures struggle to climb out of the 20s. By Friday, clouds thicken and snow chances increase into Friday evening and Saturday. Road surfaces may turn icy after sunset, especially on bridges and untreated roads. Drivers should plan extra time and reduce speed.
This setup fits a broader pattern across the Mid-Atlantic, where colder air presses south while storms ride along the boundary. Conditions may deteriorate quickly at night, even if daytime impacts seem limited.
Cold weather advisories remain possible into the weekend. Another update is expected as snow timing becomes clearer. Heading out Saturday? Share what road conditions look like where you are.
Five Day Outlook for Charleston, West Virginia
- Today: Mostly cloudy early, turning sunny. High near 25.
- Friday: Mostly cloudy with a chance of snow by afternoon. High near 24.
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, slight chance of snow. High near 17.
- Sunday: Partly sunny and cold. High near 21.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, moderating slightly. High near 31.
