West Virginia, Southwest Virginia – Slippery early-morning travel conditions continue across much of West Virginia and adjacent southwest Virginia as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, the advisory covers large portions of central, northern, southern, western, and northeastern West Virginia, along with parts of Dickenson and Buchanan counties in southwest Virginia. The alert is set to expire at 7 a.m. EST, with additional snowfall of up to two inches possible before temperatures stabilize later this morning.
Wind gusts reaching up to 35 miles per hour are contributing to areas of blowing snow and reduced visibility, particularly in open and higher-elevation locations. While an earlier round of snowfall has ended in many areas, forecasters warn that refreezing of wet surfaces overnight may create slick conditions even where little new snow accumulates.
Travel impacts are expected along major corridors including Interstate 64, Interstate 77, Interstate 79, U.S. Route 119, U.S. Route 60, and U.S. Route 52, as well as numerous secondary and rural roads. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded roadways are especially prone to icing during the pre-dawn hours.
Communities affected include Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, Clarksburg, Beckley-area counties, Logan, Welch, Williamson, Ripley, Spencer, and Point Pleasant, along with surrounding towns and rural areas.
The National Weather Service also notes that falling temperatures behind an arctic front later today and tonight could prolong hazardous travel conditions, even after snowfall tapers off. Another round of snow showers is possible as colder air moves in.
Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and use caution, particularly during early-morning hours. Pedestrians should also watch for icy sidewalks, stairs, and driveways.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local transportation agencies as conditions evolve.
