West Virginia – The cold air biting at sunrise is already losing its edge, and Charleston’s icy sidewalks are beginning to drip under a brighter February sky. After a frosty start in the 20s, temperatures are climbing toward the upper 30s today, setting up a steady thaw across much of the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, dry air holds through Friday with sunshine pushing highs to 44 degrees, then 55 by Valentine’s Day Saturday. Calm winds and mostly clear skies will dominate before moisture surges north out of the Gulf ahead of a developing Plains system.
That system spreads rain into the Kanawha Valley by Sunday, with a 70 percent chance of precipitation and highs near 48. Wet pavement and reduced visibility could slow traffic on I-64, I-77 and the West Virginia Turnpike through the afternoon and evening. Plan extra time if you’re traveling for Valentine’s Weekend events.
While no snow is expected in Charleston, colder pockets in higher elevations northeast of Beckley and toward Randolph County could see a brief mix if temperatures hover near 32 degrees early Sunday. For now, impacts remain mainly rain.
Drivers should stay alert after sunset this weekend. Meltwater can refreeze where temperatures dip into the 30s Sunday night, creating isolated slick spots. Flash freezing becomes more common this time of year as daytime thaw gives way to crisp nighttime air.
Looking ahead, the 6-10 day outlook signals above-normal temperatures across West Virginia. Highs trend into the 50s and possibly low 60s by early to midweek, hinting at early spring vibes across the Ohio Valley.
Five Day Outlook for Charleston, West Virginia:
Today: Partly sunny, high near 38.
Friday: Sunny, high near 44.
Saturday – Valentine’s Day: Mostly sunny, high near 55.
Sunday: Rain likely, high near 48.
Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 55.
