Charleston, West Virginia – Intense spring weather is on the horizon for West Virginia as strong thunderstorms threaten the Charleston region and major roadways, including I-64, late Tuesday and into Wednesday. Communities along the Kanawha Valley and Route 60 should brace for heavy rain, rising flood risk, and hazardous travel conditions as the workweek unfolds.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, scattered showers will develop Tuesday afternoon with the greatest threat for severe thunderstorms arriving after sunset and continuing overnight. Residents in Charleston, Huntington, St. Albans, and surrounding counties face the possibility of localized flooding, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage areas. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways, keep cell phones charged, and have alternate routes planned in case of closures on I-64, Route 60, or local side streets.
Emergency managers warn that Tuesday night storms could bring rain totals of up to one inch in a short period, increasing the potential for flash flooding. Power outages are also possible due to strong wind gusts and downed branches. Homeowners should secure outdoor items, check sump pumps, and clear gutters now to reduce the risk of water intrusion.
For those with sensitive outdoor plants, earlier frost advisories expire Monday morning, but attention quickly shifts to storm readiness. Strong storms may persist into Wednesday morning before tapering off, leaving scattered showers in their wake.
Looking ahead, Charleston and much of West Virginia can expect a warm, unsettled spring pattern:
Tuesday: Strong storms, heavy rain, high near 85°F
Wednesday: Showers, high 78°F
Thursday: Scattered showers, high 68°F
Friday: Thunderstorms likely, high 76°F
Saturday: Breezy and cooler, high near 67°F
