Charleston, West Virginia –
A high-impact winter storm is shaping up to affect much of West Virginia and the surrounding Ohio Valley this weekend, with periods of heavy snow and potential ice creating the risk for dangerous or impossible travel through Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Saturday morning through Monday morning for nearly all of West Virginia, along with portions of southeast Ohio, northeast Kentucky, and southwest Virginia. Forecasters warn of moderate to heavy snowfall, with a wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain possible, especially along and just west of the higher terrain.
In West Virginia, impacts could be widespread from Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, and Beckley to Clarksburg, Elkins, Buckhannon, and Bluefield. Mountain communities such as Snowshoe, Marlinton, and Webster Springs may see some of the most severe conditions, including blowing snow and poor visibility. Ice accumulation in lower elevations could add to the risk of downed trees and power lines.
Travel may become very difficult to impossible at times, particularly late Saturday through Sunday night, with lingering impacts likely for the Monday morning commute. Roads, bridges, and secondary routes could become treacherous quickly as snow intensifies.
Residents are urged to complete preparations early, avoid non-essential travel during the storm, and monitor updates closely. Additional advisories or warnings are likely as confidence in snowfall and ice impacts increases, with hazardous conditions potentially persisting into early next week.
