West Virginia – A prolonged winter storm brought widespread heavy snowfall across West Virginia from January 23 through January 26, with top totals exceeding 16 inches, according to compiled storm reports.
The highest snowfall total reported in the state was 16.6 inches in Davis, making it the snowiest observed location in West Virginia during the multi-day event. Several additional communities across the Allegheny Highlands and northern counties recorded snowfall totals well into the double digits, highlighting the storm’s strongest impact in higher elevations.
Among other high-end reports, Canaan Heights measured 13.8 inches, while Valley Grove (6 miles south-southeast) recorded 13.0 inches. These totals reflect significant accumulations across mountainous terrain where colder temperatures supported prolonged snowfall.
Snowfall totals of 10.0 inches were reported in Avella (3 miles west) and Moundsville, underscoring the storm’s reach beyond the highest elevations. Farther east, Martinsburg (6 miles east) measured 9.4 inches, while Brilliant (1 mile east) and Clearview each reported 9.0 inches, reflecting slightly lower but still impactful totals.
Snow accumulated steadily over multiple days rather than falling in a single intense burst, prolonging hazardous travel conditions across the state. Mountain roads and major corridors, including Interstates 68, 70, 77, and U.S. Route 33, experienced periods of slick pavement, reduced visibility, and slowed traffic, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Cleanup operations continued after snowfall ended as cold temperatures limited melting, allowing snowpack to persist on secondary roads, mountain passes, and shaded areas. Snowbanks and narrowed roadways remained common issues even after precipitation tapered.
The January 23–26 storm ranks among the most significant snow events of the season for West Virginia, particularly in higher-elevation communities, contributing substantially to seasonal snowfall totals across the state.
