Charleston, West Virginia – West Virginia faces a disruptive round of summer storms on Thursday, July 17th, with Charleston commuters urged to prepare for sudden downpours and lightning delays on I-64 and I-77.
Thunderstorms will roll into the Charleston region by mid-afternoon Thursday, bringing lightning, heavy rain, and localized flooding risks. According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are expected mainly after 2 p.m., with storms potentially lasting into Thursday night. Residents should stay off roadways like I-64 and I-77 during the peak of the storms and secure outdoor items as gusty winds may accompany stronger cells.
Drivers can expect rapid visibility changes and ponding on roads—use extra caution during evening rush hour. Power outages are possible if severe storms develop. Rainfall totals may remain below a tenth of an inch, but any thunderstorm could cause quick downpours and minor flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
Looking ahead, Friday, July 18th will bring more showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 p.m., keeping travel and outdoor plans uncertain. Rain continues off and on through Friday night and into Saturday, July 19th, with storm chances highest in the afternoon and early evening. Sunday, July 20th, offers a slight break, but more rain and storms could develop late Sunday and Monday, July 21st.
What’s Next:
Thunderstorms remain in the forecast through early next week, with the potential for more severe weather alerts. Stay weather-aware and watch for updates as conditions evolve.
Charleston Five-Day Forecast: July 17th–July 22nd
- Thursday: Showers and storms after 2 p.m., high near 91°F. Storms likely at night, low around 72°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny, storms likely after 2 p.m., high near 85°F. More storms possible overnight, low 71°F.
- Saturday: Showers and storms possible, especially late, high 88°F, low 71°F.
- Sunday: Morning storms, then mostly sunny, high 86°F. More storms Sunday night.
- Monday: Thunderstorms likely, high near 86°F. More rain possible Monday night.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, chance of showers, high near 90°F.
Stay alert—thunderstorm risks continue through the start of next week.
