Charleston, West Virginia – Christmas travel preparations are ramping up across West Virginia as the state heads toward the heavily traveled Dec 19–Dec 23 holiday window, and late-week weather could affect plans for drivers navigating the mountains. While temperatures are expected to trend above normal overall, precipitation timing and elevation will play a major role in travel conditions.
Sunday remains quiet, but an active pattern develops by midweek as a storm system moves through the Ohio Valley and central Appalachians. According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, periods of rain are possible late Thursday into Friday, with colder air holding across higher elevations. That setup raises the potential for rain mixing with wet snow or freezing rain, particularly overnight and during early morning travel.
For the Charleston metro, rain is the primary concern, but surrounding higher terrain could see slick spots develop quickly. Major routes including I-64, I-77, I-79, and the West Virginia Turnpike may experience slowdowns if precipitation coincides with peak holiday departures. Mountain roads, especially in eastern and northern West Virginia, are more vulnerable to icing as temperatures dip near freezing.
Air travel could also see minor disruptions if weather overlaps with busy holiday schedules at Yeager Airport and regional airports. According to West Virginia Division of Highways guidance, travelers should allow extra time, monitor road conditions closely, and avoid unnecessary overnight travel in higher elevations if mixed precipitation develops.
Despite the milder late-week temperature trend, nighttime cooling remains a concern in the mountains. Travelers are encouraged to carry winter emergency kits, charge devices, and share travel plans with family or friends.
This Christmas travel period is shaping up to be manageable but terrain-sensitive, making preparation and flexibility essential for a smooth holiday journey.
