A reinforcing winter system is expected to bring a widespread snow and freezing rain threat across West Virginia and into Virginia on Thursday, raising concern for dangerous travel conditions across the central and southern Mid-Atlantic. The region is expected to sit beneath a classic transition-zone setup, where cold air near the surface collides with warmer air aloft.
Across West Virginia, precipitation is expected to develop or continue as snow and freezing rain, especially from Charleston north and east through Morgantown, Elkins, Beckley, and the higher elevations. Freezing rain may dominate at times in lower elevations, while snow becomes more likely in the mountains. Even light ice accumulation could make roads extremely slick.
Farther south into Virginia, including Roanoke, Blacksburg, Lynchburg, and the Shenandoah Valley, precipitation may begin as rain early Thursday before transitioning to freezing rain or snow as colder air deepens. Northern and western sections of the state are most at risk for icing, while higher elevations of southwest Virginia could see periods of accumulating snow.
The primary concern is travel impact rather than snowfall totals. Freezing rain can quickly coat bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads, creating hazardous conditions with little visual warning. Mountain roads and secondary routes will be especially vulnerable. Gusty winds may add to the impact by bringing down ice-laden tree limbs, leading to isolated power disruptions.
Conditions may slowly improve Thursday night as colder air allows precipitation to change to snow or taper off, but icy and snow-covered roads could persist into Friday morning.
Residents and travelers across West Virginia and Virginia are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, reduce speed, and monitor updates closely, as small temperature changes could significantly alter precipitation type and impact severity across the region.
