Charleston, WV – West Virginia is setting up for a wintry and potentially disruptive stretch of weather from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook highlighting above-normal precipitation across the state paired with near- to slightly-below-normal temperatures in the north and higher elevations. This pattern raises the risk for snow, freezing rain, and mixed precipitation, particularly as travelers head toward Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, mountain regions—including Snowshoe, Elkins, Davis, Summersville, and areas along U.S. 219—hold the strongest likelihood of accumulating snow. Colder air at higher elevations will allow multiple systems to bring periodic snow showers, with moderate totals possible from December 20–23.
Central West Virginia—including Charleston, Clarksburg, Weston, and Flatwoods—sits in a marginal temperature zone where storms may begin as snow or sleet before transitioning to freezing rain, especially between December 19–21. Even minimal ice in this region can significantly affect bridges, ramps, and untreated back roads.
Southern West Virginia—including Beckley, Bluefield, and Princeton—leans slightly warmer during the early portion of the forecast, favoring cold rain at times. However, colder air pushing north-to-south late in the period may allow precipitation to end as snow or a light wintry mix heading into Christmas Eve.
Major travel routes—including I-79, I-77, I-64, Corridor H, and the West Virginia Turnpike—may experience slick conditions, reduced visibility, and delays, especially from December 21–24 when weather impacts are expected to peak.
