Charleston, West Virginia – Frost coats windshields, breath hangs in the air, and the cold bites fast this morning as an arctic blast tightens its grip across West Virginia. Wind chills near and below zero are making even short trips outside feel punishing, especially before midday.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through late morning, with wind chills dropping as low as 10 degrees below zero across the Kanawha Valley and surrounding counties. Officials warn exposed skin can develop hypothermia quickly without proper layers.
Statewide, the cold reaches from the Ohio River counties through the mountains, stressing heating systems and increasing the risk of frozen pipes. In Charleston, temperatures hover in the single digits early, struggling to climb into the lower 20s. Northwest winds add bite, while light snow showers or flurries remain possible at times.
Road conditions may look dry, but melting from yesterday can refreeze fast. Crews warn of flash-freezing on bridges and ramps, including stretches near I-64 and I-77. Drivers should slow down and allow extra stopping distance through the morning commute.
Relief is brief. Sunshine returns Monday, but another system midweek brings renewed concern. Light snow chances increase Monday night, followed by a rain-and-snow mix Tuesday as temperatures flirt with freezing. Any leftover moisture could ice over Tuesday night as colder air pushes back in.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook signals colder-than-normal temperatures lingering across the eastern U.S. into the first full week of February. Meteorologists continue tracking additional systems that could reinforce winter conditions through Friday and Saturday.
Five-Day Outlook for Charleston, WV
- Sunday: Cold, breezy. High near 23. Wind chills near zero early.
- Monday: Mostly sunny. High around 34.
- Tuesday: Chance of snow changing to rain. High near 39.
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, colder. High near 32.
- Thursday: Partly sunny. High near 29.
