Charleston, WV – Drivers and residents across West Virginia could face sudden road hazards by late Thursday night as strong thunderstorms threaten to snap tree limbs, flood low-lying roads, and reduce visibility in minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a slight risk for severe weather now stretches into southeast Ohio, with storms expected to intensify after sunset Thursday and continue through the overnight hours. Wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail near 1 inch in diameter are the primary concerns, especially along and north of the I-64 and I-77 corridors.
Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, and Beckley could see the most consistent storm activity late Thursday evening, while communities closer to the Ohio River may experience slightly lower intensity but still face heavy downpours. In southeast Ohio, areas near Athens and Marietta are now included in the expanding risk zone.
Heavy rainfall may lead to localized flash flooding, particularly in poor drainage areas and along creeks already running high. Water could quickly cover secondary roads and underpasses, creating dangerous driving conditions after dark.
Residents should secure outdoor items, charge devices, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours. Power outages are possible where winds down trees or lines.
The severe threat is expected to weaken closer to the Ohio River toward early Friday morning, but additional alerts could be issued if storms intensify or track shifts overnight.
